By Naveed Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, during a joint press conference in Islamabad with his Pakistani counterpart Jalil Abbas Jilani, asserted that militants in the border areas shared by Pakistan and Iran are receiving support and leadership from third countries. Abdollahian highlighted the detrimental impact of these activities on the interests of both Iranian and Pakistani governments and nations.
Tensions escalated recently after a deadly Iranian airstrike in Pakistan, prompting Islamabad to respond with strikes on terrorist hideouts in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province. In a subsequent incident, nine Pakistani workers were killed by unidentified attackers in the same province, leading Pakistan to demand a comprehensive investigation and swift prosecution for the brutal attack.
Despite these challenges, both foreign ministers underscored the importance of robust dialogue and cooperation for positive bilateral relations. They agreed to work towards common goals of peace and prosperity, based on mutual respect and a collective approach to address shared challenges. The ministers expressed a commitment to taking swift actions on border security, counterterrorism efforts, and the expansion of trade and economic cooperation.
During the discussions, Abdollahian mentioned that there are no territorial differences between Iran and Pakistan, emphasizing their shared history as a single nation located in two different geographical positions. He revealed receiving an invitation for Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to visit Pakistan.
Both countries affirmed their commitment to respecting each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Abdollahian declared that Iran and Pakistan would not provide any opportunity for terrorists to endanger their common security. The ministers agreed to establish a high-level constructive mechanism, with regular meetings alternately held in Iran and Pakistan to oversee progress in various areas of cooperation.
Foreign Minister Jilani highlighted the urgency of addressing each other’s concerns and the need for collaborative approaches to combat terrorism in respective areas. Liaison officers would be deployed in Turbat and Zahedan, border markets would be operationalized promptly, and development projects prioritized for mutual benefit.
In conclusion, the joint efforts of Iran and Pakistan aim to strengthen ties, enhance economic cooperation, and effectively address security challenges, particularly in the context of recent events along their shared border.
