Diplomatic Correspondent
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Iran have expressed their commitment to enhance bilateral trade to $5 billion through a comprehensive five-year [2023-2028] trade cooperation plan. The plan aims to strengthen economic ties, combat terrorism, and foster job creation under existing mechanisms involving China, Pakistan, Iran, and Turkey for joint cooperation and mutual interest.
During the delegation-level talks between the two nations, Foreign Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari led Pakistan’s side, while Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian headed the Iranian delegation.
In a joint news conference after the talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abdollahian highlighted the importance of the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project and expressed readiness for its completion and operationalization. He emphasized finding solutions to banking and financial issues within international regulations. Both sides agreed to establish a special economic free trade region along their common border points.
The two leaders also discussed various regional mechanisms, including one involving Iran, Turkey, and Pakistan, and another with China, Pakistan, and Iran for joint investment and cooperation.
The dialogue also covered major regional issues, including Afghanistan and Ukraine. Minister Abdollahian stressed the significance of regional initiatives for Afghanistan’s stability and the need for humanitarian support. He condemned the US and its allies for their involvement in the Ukraine conflict.
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari highlighted the signing of important documents, including the Five-Year Trade Cooperation Plan, prioritizing the removal of trade barriers and the establishment of institutional linkages between the private sectors of both countries. He expressed confidence that these steps will lead to a long-term and durable economic partnership.
Both nations agreed to prioritize operationalizing the remaining border markets by the end of the year to enhance regional integration based on trade and connectivity. They also discussed the repatriation of prisoners and fishermen in respective jails and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a peaceful and friendly common border.
Bhutto-Zardari briefed Minister Abdollahian on the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Kashmir (IIOJK) and appreciated Iran’s consistent support for the Kashmiri people’s legitimate cause. The two leaders also agreed to continue their engagement for peace and stability in Afghanistan and to counter Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred.
The talks marked a significant step in strengthening the historic Pakistan-Iran relationship, fostering regional cooperation, and promoting shared prosperity and development
