TEHRAN, Monday, May 26, 2025 (WNP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen bilateral ties across multiple sectors and work jointly to foster peace and stability in the region.

In wide-ranging talks held at the historic Sa’dabad Palace, the two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of Pakistan-Iran relations and agreed to expand cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, counter-terrorism, and regional diplomacy.

Addressing the media following the delegation-level talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz described his meeting with President Pezeshkian as “productive and constructive,” emphasizing a shared vision for deepening cooperation between the two neighboring nations.

“There was complete consensus that the brotherly countries must build upon their historical and cultural ties to forge a dynamic partnership, particularly in the economic sphere,” the Prime Minister said. “We are determined to transform our relationship into a results-oriented collaboration for the benefit of our peoples.”

Expressing gratitude to the Iranian leadership for its support during recent regional tensions, Prime Minister Shehbaz appreciated President Pezeshkian’s concern and outreach during the subcontinental crisis, reiterating Pakistan’s preference for peace through dialogue.

“Pakistan seeks peace and remains committed to resolving outstanding issues, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions,” he stated. “However, if aggression is imposed, we will resolutely defend our sovereignty.”

Condemning Israel’s continued aggression in Gaza, the Prime Minister called for an urgent and lasting ceasefire. “Over 50,000 innocent Palestinians have been martyred. It is high time the international community acts to end this humanitarian catastrophe,” he urged.

President Pezeshkian welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz and his high-powered delegation, stressing that Pakistan remains a key regional partner for Iran. “Our nations share centuries-old civilizational and religious ties, and we view Pakistan’s peace and stability as our own,” the Iranian President remarked.

He reaffirmed Iran’s support for peaceful resolutions to regional conflicts, including those between Pakistan and India, and emphasized the importance of border security, economic cooperation, and dialogue among neighboring states.

The two leaders also reiterated their support for the Palestinian cause and condemned the ongoing Israeli atrocities in Gaza. They stressed the urgency of unity among Muslim countries to defend the rights of oppressed peoples and advance shared goals of peace and prosperity.

During his two-day visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz also called on Supreme Leader Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei. In the meeting, he paid tribute to the Supreme Leader’s wisdom and influence in the Muslim world and discussed matters of mutual interest, including regional stability, bilateral strategic cooperation, and Iran’s pursuit of civilian nuclear development.

The Supreme Leader appreciated Prime Minister Shehbaz’s statesmanship and efforts for regional peace, and praised his commitment to enhancing Pakistan-Iran ties. He also expressed his admiration for the Prime Minister’s appreciation of Persian literary and cultural icons, especially the poetry of Allama Iqbal.

The visit also witnessed discussions on expediting progress on the Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline project and enhancing border security mechanisms to curb terrorism and illicit cross-border activities.

Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Iran’s peaceful nuclear program and reiterated Islamabad’s readiness to collaborate closely on regional and international platforms, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The high-level Pakistani delegation accompanying the Prime Minister included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi.

The visit, part of the Prime Minister’s four-nation regional tour, is seen as a pivotal step in enhancing diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties between the two countries.

Before departing Tehran for Baku on the next leg of his visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz extended a formal invitation to President Pezeshkian to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.