Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held extensive talks on Monday, committing to enhance cooperation to boost bilateral trade and investment as well as to work together for maintaining peace and security in the region.
Speaking to the media at Sa’dabad Palace following the delegation-level discussions, the Prime Minister described his meeting with the Iranian President as productive and beneficial, covering a wide range of mutual interests and areas of cooperation.
“There is a unanimous agreement that the two brotherly neighbouring countries must enhance cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, and the economy,” he stated. The Prime Minister emphasised that Pakistan and Iran share deep-rooted cultural and historical ties. “We have decided to transform these relations into productive cooperation across various sectors,” he added.
He also took the opportunity to express gratitude to the President for his earlier call and concern regarding the evolving situation in the subcontinent. “I deeply appreciate your concern and brotherly sentiments for the people of Pakistan and your heartfelt desire to prevent the crisis from escalating further,” he informed the President.
The Prime Minister highlighted that his government had previously engaged in extensive discussions with the Iranian Foreign Minister during his recent visit to Pakistan. He asserted that Pakistan emerged from its crisis with India victorious, thanks to the brave actions of its armed forces, which were strongly supported by the people.
“We seek peace and are committed to achieving it through dialogue, addressing outstanding issues—including the Kashmir conflict—based on United Nations Security Council resolutions, which were acknowledged even by the Indian Lok Sabha when Nehru was the Prime Minister of India,” he said. He expressed willingness to engage in discussions for the sake of peace on various issues, including water, trade, and counter-terrorism, if India is serious about cooperation.
However, he reinforced that if India remains aggressive, Pakistan will defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. “If they accept our offer, we want to talk for the sake of peace,” he reiterated.
The Prime Minister condemned Israeli actions that have resulted in immense suffering for the people of Gaza, where over 50,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed. “It is crucial that the international community uses its influence to establish a lasting ceasefire in Palestine. Pakistan stands in solidarity with its brothers and sisters in Iran to promote peace, progress, and prosperity,” he added. He assured that Pakistan fully supports Iran’s right to pursue a civilian nuclear program and intends to collaborate on mutual concerns.
Welcoming the Prime Minister and his delegation, the Iranian President acknowledged Pakistan as an important neighbouring country, highlighting the centuries-old historical, cultural, and civilizational links between the two nations. He noted that both countries share a common stance on critical regional and international issues within platforms such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
During their meeting, both sides discussed the expansion of bilateral relations in various areas, including politics, economics, and international cooperation, agreeing to continue implementing previously signed agreements. The Iranian President emphasised the need for cooperation to secure their borders against terrorist and criminal activities. “Peace and stability in Pakistan are in Iran’s interest. We believe that maintaining security and fostering friendly, peaceful relations with neighbouring countries is beneficial for both nations,” he remarked.
He expressed support for the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, asserting that resolving issues through dialogue is essential for regional stability. “For ensuring security and stability in the region, neighbouring countries should engage in dialogue and positive consultations among each other and with international partners,” he added.
The two sides also addressed issues facing the Islamic world, placing top priority on the situation in Palestine. “As always, we support the cause of Palestine and condemn the atrocities committed by Israel,” he concluded.
Earlier, upon his arrival, the Iranian President warmly welcomed the Prime Minister and his delegation. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatimi.
