Islamabad: At the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) 2024 summit, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, engaged in pivotal discussions with Iran’s Minister for Industry, Mining, and Trade, Mr. Mohammad Atabak, focusing on enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting centered on various strategic initiatives to boost economic relations between Pakistan and Iran, including expanding trade and investment, and fostering industrial collaboration. Both ministers recognized the significant yet untapped potential for bilateral trade and discussed leveraging their strategic geographic positions to access broader regional markets.

Minister Khan emphasized the mutual benefits of intensified cooperation, noting the synergy between Pakistan’s gateway position to Central Asia and Iran’s access to the Middle East. The talks also touched on cultural exchanges and the role of the SCO in facilitating regional stability and economic growth.

The meeting concluded with both parties committing to ongoing dialogue and the formulation of action plans to address trade barriers and regulatory issues, thereby smoothing the path for enhanced business interactions. Minister Atabak extended an invitation to Minister Khan for a high-level visit to Iran, underscoring a mutual interest in deepening ties through direct engagement.