ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and Iran have agreed to elevate their bilateral trade to an ambitious target of $8 billion annually, underscoring a renewed push for deeper economic integration and enhanced border cooperation between the two neighbouring nations.
The agreement was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal and Iranian Minister for Industry, Mine and Trade Mohammad Atabak, held as part of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s ongoing official visit to Pakistan.
Describing the current trade volume as far below its potential, both ministers expressed the urgent need to accelerate economic collaboration. “The time has come to fast-track trade ties with Iran,” said Jam Kamal. “We must convert our geographical proximity into economic strength.”
The ministers also highlighted the importance of improving infrastructure and streamlining trade mechanisms along the Pakistan-Iran border, with a shared emphasis on developing secure and efficient cross-border trade routes. The discussion aligns with recent initiatives aimed at addressing logistical challenges and fostering greater regional connectivity.
Defense and Diplomatic Ties Strengthened Amid Presidential Visit
The trade talks were part of a broader agenda focused on deepening Pakistan-Iran bilateral relations, which also included high-level defense and diplomatic engagements over the weekend.
On Saturday, Iranian Defence Minister Brigadier General Aziz Nasserzadeh met with Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif in Islamabad. Their discussions covered regional security, joint counter-terrorism efforts, and ways to strengthen military cooperation.
A statement issued by the Ministry of Defence emphasized both sides’ mutual desire to foster peace and stability in the region. Khawaja Asif welcomed the Iranian delegation and reiterated the importance of defence diplomacy in advancing long-term strategic ties. General Nasserzadeh responded by stressing Iran’s commitment to building military cooperation grounded in mutual trust and shared values.
In a parallel diplomatic engagement, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi held talks with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Araqchi, who is accompanying President Pezeshkian, discussed expanding cooperation in trade, economic development, and regional peace efforts.
The meetings reflect a broader alignment between Islamabad and Tehran to overcome past trade barriers and reinforce cooperation on multiple fronts, ranging from economic policy and border management to defense strategy and diplomatic dialogue.
President Pezeshkian’s visit is being seen as a significant step in resetting bilateral relations and pushing for tangible outcomes in both economic and strategic domains.
