Civilian Nuclear Program
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held extensive talks on Monday, during which both leaders agreed on the need to enhance bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, and regional peace and security. The meeting, held at the Sa’dabad Palace, was described by the Prime Minister as highly productive and covered a broad range of mutual interests.
Speaking to the media after the delegation-level discussions, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties between Pakistan and Iran, calling the two countries “brotherly neighbours.” He stated that both sides had agreed to strengthen cooperation across multiple fields to transform these longstanding relations into tangible and productive outcomes, particularly in trade and economic development.
The Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude to the Iranian President for his recent outreach concerning the evolving situation in South Asia. He appreciated President Pezeshkian’s genuine concern for the welfare of the Pakistani people and his desire to prevent any further escalation of regional tensions.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s victorious stance in recent confrontations with India, crediting the armed forces and public support. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace, expressing willingness to resolve outstanding issues, including Kashmir, through dialogue based on United Nations Security Council resolutions.
He underscored that Pakistan is ready to engage in talks with India on various matters such as water sharing, trade, and counterterrorism, but warned that it would defend its sovereignty firmly if faced with continued aggression.
The Prime Minister condemned Israeli actions in Gaza, where over 50,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, urging the international community to push for a lasting ceasefire. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran in promoting peace, progress, and prosperity in the region, and expressed full support for Iran’s right to develop a civilian nuclear program. He assured that Pakistan would collaborate closely with Iran on all issues of mutual concern.
In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian welcomed the Prime Minister and his delegation warmly. He highlighted the centuries-old cultural and civilizational links between Pakistan and Iran and praised their shared positions on key regional and international platforms, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
The Iranian President emphasized the importance of continued implementation of existing agreements and expressed a desire to expand bilateral cooperation in political, economic, and international spheres.
Addressing security concerns, Pezeshkian stressed the importance of securing their shared border against terrorist and criminal activities, noting that peace and stability in Pakistan are crucial for Iran’s own security. He welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and India and advocated for dialogue and positive consultations among neighboring countries and international partners to ensure lasting regional stability.
Both leaders agreed on the importance of addressing issues affecting the Islamic world, with the Palestinian cause taking top priority. Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s unwavering support for Palestine and condemned the atrocities committed by Israel.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue fostering close cooperation, with both sides hopeful that their joint efforts will bring lasting peace and prosperity to the region.
Accompanying Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif were 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.
