Iranian President Raisi
KARACHI / LAHORE: Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, during a high-profile visit to Pakistan, expressed his country’s readiness to share advancements in science, technology, and industry with Islamabad.
Speaking in Karachi after visiting Lahore, President Raisi conveyed a message of peace and prosperity to Pakistan, emphasizing the potential for strengthened bilateral trade and economic collaboration despite challenging conditions in Iran.
During a ceremony at the Chief Minister House in Karachi, President Raisi highlighted the willingness of both nations to remove barriers to enhance trade, with recent discussions aiming to boost the annual trade volume to $10 billion over the next five years.
He described this target as a pivotal opportunity to deepen ties across various sectors. His visit underscored the unshakable historical bonds between Iran and Pakistan, asserting that no external forces could impact these long-standing relations.
The Iranian leader’s arrival in Karachi involved extensive security measures, including the closure of major roads, suspension of cellular services in parts of the city, and the deployment of thousands of police and Rangers to maintain security.
These precautions led to significant disruptions in daily life and business activities across the city, highlighting the high level of security arranged for the visit.
In Lahore, President Raisi was warmly received by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He praised Lahore’s cultural heritage and expressed a desire for increased people-to-people contacts between the two nations.
The discussions also touched on potential economic collaborations, particularly in the sectors of agriculture and livestock, to help alleviate poverty and foster economic growth.
Additionally, during his stay, President Raisi visited important cultural sites and reiterated the emotional and historical connections that bind Iran and Pakistan. He acknowledged the significance of Allama Iqbal, a revered figure in Iran, for his inspirational contributions.
On the international front, Raisi commended Pakistan’s stance against Zionist forces, aligning closely with Iran’s position on regional conflicts. He warned of severe repercussions for any aggressive actions by Israeli forces against Iranian territory, reflecting ongoing regional tensions.
Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department issued a caution regarding new economic engagements with Iran, pointing out the risks of U.S. sanctions. Despite these warnings, the spokesperson noted that the decision on foreign relations ultimately rests with the Pakistani government.
This visit by President Raisi not only signifies a deepening of Iran-Pakistan relations but also reflects the broader geopolitical dynamics influencing trade and diplomatic engagements in the region.
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