Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday reiterated Pakistan’s firm support for Iran’s nuclear programme aimed at peaceful purposes. Speaking during a joint press conference with Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian in Islamabad, Sharif also condemned what he described as Israel’s “unjustified aggression” against Iran and the ongoing atrocities being committed in Gaza.
Praising Iran’s response to Israeli hostilities, the prime minister hailed the country’s reaction as “strong and courageous,” calling it a “brilliant victory” under the leadership of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Pezeshkian. Sharif underscored the importance of solidarity in challenging times, saying that “a true friend is one who stands with you in difficult times.” He also pointed out the shared perspectives of both countries on countering terrorism and emphasized their mutual commitment to strengthening security along the Pak-Iran border.
Addressing economic cooperation, the prime minister expressed hope that the current trade volume between the two nations, which stands at $2 billion, would soon be increased to $10 billion. He added that the two governments were determined to work towards this goal swiftly.
On the humanitarian front, Sharif called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and appealed to the global community to unite for lasting peace. Drawing parallels between the crises in Gaza and Kashmir, he stated that the suffering of Palestinians echoed the pain of Kashmiris living under occupation. He accused Israel of using food as a weapon and thanked Iran for its continued support of the Kashmiri cause.
President Pezeshkian, in his remarks, described Pakistan as Iran’s “second home” and appreciated the Pakistani nation’s solidarity during recent regional tensions involving Israel. He said that unity among Muslim countries was essential and called for joint efforts to counter terrorism and oppression.
Stressing the need for deeper economic ties, he reiterated Iran’s goal of expanding trade with Pakistan to $10 billion and condemned Israeli actions in Gaza as completely unacceptable.
During his visit, the two sides signed a broad set of agreements and memorandums of understanding aimed at expanding cooperation across various sectors. These agreements covered trade, maritime operations, environmental management, scientific collaboration, digital infrastructure, tourism, youth and cultural exchanges, and legal affairs.
Key highlights include the joint use of the Mirjaveh-Taftan border crossing, enhanced cooperation in plant protection, mutual recognition of certification standards, and a supplemental agreement to the 2013 air services framework to improve air connectivity.
In the area of security and justice, agreements were signed for mutual legal assistance in criminal matters and improved collaboration in maritime safety and firefighting operations. Other notable accords focused on meteorological data sharing and hazard management, which are expected to help both nations better respond to climate-related challenges.
Officials noted that these agreements are designed to lay the groundwork for broader regional cooperation, including the development of cross-border infrastructure and enhanced connectivity. A joint ministerial statement was also issued, reaffirming the commitment to finalize a Free Trade Agreement, a longstanding objective for both countries.
President Pezeshkian extended an official invitation to Prime Minister Sharif to visit Iran in the near future. His visit follows former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s trip to Pakistan in April 2024, indicating continued momentum in high-level bilateral engagements.
