President Asif Ali Zardari has arrived in Iraq on an official visit, marking a renewed diplomatic engagement between the two countries. The Presidency confirmed his arrival through a post on its official X account late Saturday night.
Upon landing in Baghdad, President Zardari received a formal welcome. Iraq’s Minister for Culture, Ahmed Fakkak Al-Badrani, received him at the airport. The Presidency said the visit would include meetings with senior Iraqi leadership.
According to the statement, the meetings aim to advance cooperation between Pakistan and Iraq. Officials expect the engagements to further strengthen bilateral relations. They also see the visit as an opportunity to expand collaboration across multiple sectors.
Earlier, Pakistan’s Foreign Office had announced the visit. It said President Zardari would remain in Iraq from December 20 to December 24. The Iraqi president, Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, extended the formal invitation.
The Foreign Office said the visit would focus on reviewing bilateral ties. Both sides will assess the current state of cooperation. They will also explore ways to enhance engagement in key areas of mutual interest.
Officials said trade and investment would feature prominently in the discussions. Energy cooperation will also remain high on the agenda. Other areas include reconstruction, manpower development, and technology exchange.
Additionally, the two sides will discuss education and people-to-people contacts. Cultural and social exchanges will also receive attention. Officials believe these areas can help build long-term partnerships.
The Foreign Office added that talks would also cover regional and international developments. Leaders will exchange views on evolving geopolitical challenges. Cooperation at multilateral forums will form another key part of the agenda.
Meanwhile, a separate diplomatic development emerged during the journey. Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, shared details in a post on X. He said President Zardari conveyed a goodwill message to Iran while en route to Baghdad.
According to the ambassador, the president’s aircraft passed through Iranian airspace. During that time, President Zardari sent a message to the Iranian leadership. The message reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran.
The ambassador said the message emphasised mutual respect between the two countries. It also highlighted the importance of stronger relations between the historic neighbours. He described the gesture as timely and meaningful.
Ambassador Tipu noted that the message coincided with Iran’s celebration of Yalda Night. Yalda Night is a long-standing cultural tradition in Iran. It symbolises hope, joy, and compassion among families.
He said the spirit of Yalda Night reflects shared civilisational values. According to him, these values define Pakistan-Iran social and cultural affinities. He added that such traditions strengthen bilateral understanding.
Turning back to the Iraq visit, officials stressed its broader significance. Pakistan and Iraq have traditionally enjoyed warm and cordial relations. Both countries share historical, religious, and cultural bonds.
Religious tourism remains a key pillar of bilateral ties. Thousands of Pakistani pilgrims travel to Iraq annually. Officials hope the visit will improve facilities and coordination for pilgrims.
Economic collaboration also remains a priority. Pakistan sees potential for increased trade with Iraq. Officials believe untapped opportunities exist in energy and reconstruction sectors.
Furthermore, manpower cooperation could benefit both countries. Pakistan has a skilled workforce that could support Iraq’s rebuilding efforts. Leaders are expected to explore practical frameworks during the visit.
Diplomatic sources said the visit reflects Pakistan’s commitment to regional engagement. It also signals Islamabad’s intent to diversify economic partnerships. Strengthening ties with Middle Eastern countries remains a core objective.
Observers say the timing of the visit holds added importance. Regional dynamics continue to shift rapidly. Pakistan aims to play a constructive role through dialogue and cooperation.
Officials expressed optimism about the outcomes of the visit. They said discussions could open new avenues of partnership. They also expect enhanced people-to-people linkages to follow.
Overall, President Zardari’s visit is expected to reinforce bilateral ties. It seeks to build on shared interests and mutual respect. Officials believe it will contribute to stronger diplomatic and economic relations.
