Lahore, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif hosted a meeting and luncheon at the Governor House in honor of Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi and his delegation. The event was organized to strengthen the ties between Pakistan and Iran and celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, Chief Minister Sharif met with President Raisi and the First Lady, Jamila Alamul Huda, to discuss bilateral relations and cooperation in various sectors. The Iranian delegation enjoyed traditional country cuisine during the lunch, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan.
Chief Minister Sharif thanked President Raisi and the First Lady for visiting Lahore, highlighting the decades-long friendship between Pakistan and Iran. She emphasized the importance of collaboration on economic projects to eradicate poverty and encouraged increased bilateral cooperation for industrial and agricultural development. Sharif also expressed interest in welcoming Iran’s investment in Punjab’s value-added livestock market, noting that both countries could benefit from establishing Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) zones and exporting halal meat.
The Chief Minister outlined the potential for investment in environmentally friendly green energy projects in Punjab, emphasizing the need for sustainable energy solutions. She also conveyed her best wishes for the prosperity and peace of the Iranian people.
President Raisi and the First Lady expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Sharif for the warm welcome. The meeting was attended by various high-ranking officials, including Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, Senator Pervez Rashid, Minister of Information Uzma Zahid Bukhari, Minister of Finance Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman, Provincial Minister of Secondary Healthcare and Medical Education Khawaja Sulaiman Rafiq, Provincial Minister of Food Bilal Yasin, Provincial Minister of Industries Chaudhry Shafi Hussain, Chief Secretary, Inspector General of Police, and Iranian Consul General Mehran Mowahidfar.
The discussions during the meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between the two countries, with an emphasis on promoting investment and economic growth. Both parties agreed to continue working together to foster stronger ties and explore new opportunities for collaboration.