Islamabad, President Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi of Iran concluded his official visit to Pakistan, reaffirming a commitment to the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue through dialogue and peaceful means. The visit, which took place from April 22nd to April 24th, was initiated at the invitation of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, marking a significant step towards bolstering diplomatic ties and enhancing cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
According to Kashmir Media Service, President Raisi’s visit included delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, where they reviewed bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern. The Iranian president was accompanied by Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian and other senior Iranian officials. The visit resulted in the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Agreements, symbolizing a commitment to deepening cooperation across various sectors.
In addition to discussions on regional and global issues, both sides agreed to peacefully resolve the Kashmir dispute based on the will of the Kashmiri people and in accordance with international law. The talks also covered economic cooperation, with both countries committing to expanding trade and economic ties. The leaders set a target of elevating bilateral trade to USD 10 billion over the next five years and outlined joint development-oriented economic projects, including the establishment of joint border markets, economic free zones, and new border openings.
Energy sector collaboration was also a key focus, with an emphasis on trade in electricity and the implementation of the IP Gas Pipeline Project. Both nations also prioritized finalizing the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and facilitating the regular exchange of economic and technical experts to boost economic cooperation.
On regional connectivity, Pakistan and Iran reiterated their commitment to promoting efficient and barrier-free trade through the full operationalization of the Transports Internationaux Routiers (TIR) Convention. The leaders condemned terrorism in all its forms and called for peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In a show of solidarity with the Palestinian cause, Pakistan and Iran condemned Israeli aggression and atrocities against the Palestinian people, calling for an immediate ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza, and a just, comprehensive solution based on the aspirations of the Palestinian people.
During his visit, President Raisi also stopped in Lahore and Karachi, paying homage to prominent historical figures and meeting with business leaders to explore avenues for enhanced bilateral trade and economic cooperation. He extended warm invitations to President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to visit Iran, reinforcing the commitment to deepening and diversifying relations between the two nations.
The visit marks a significant milestone in Pakistan-Iran relations, with both sides emphasizing the importance of peaceful dialogue and cooperation for the mutual benefit of their nations and the broader region.