ISLAMABAD, Sunday, August 03, 2025 (WNP): Pakistan and Iran on Sunday reaffirmed their shared resolve to significantly deepen bilateral cooperation across trade, regional connectivity, and humanitarian causes, setting a new target of $10 billion in trade volume as Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif hosted Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian at the Prime Minister House.

The high-profile meeting—part of President Pezeshkian’s official visit to Pakistan—was marked by a ceremonial guard of honour and warm diplomatic courtesies, followed by one-on-one talks and delegation-level discussions involving top leadership from both sides.

Prime Minister Shehbaz was joined by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and several key federal ministers and officials.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with Iran, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the bravery of the Iranian people, military, and leadership during the 12-day war with Israel, offering condolences over the loss of lives, including senior military officials and civilians.

He also thanked Tehran for its “principled and consistent” support during Pakistan’s tensions with India, while President Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for Islamabad’s moral and diplomatic backing during the recent conflict, describing it as a reflection of “unshakable brotherhood.”

A key highlight of the visit was the mutual commitment to elevate bilateral trade from the current $3 billion to $10 billion in the near future. Discussions focused on a wide range of economic initiatives including: operationalization of border markets; expansion of barter trade mechanisms; increasing export quotas for rice, fruits, and meat; and addressing trade facilitation hurdles.

Both leaders stressed the need to convene the 22nd Joint Economic Commission at the earliest to institutionalize cooperation in trade, connectivity, culture, and people-to-people exchange.

A number of MoUs and agreements were signed in sectors of mutual interest, which the two sides believe will pave the way for robust economic integration and regional cooperation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz lauded Iran’s vocal support for the Palestinian cause, particularly during the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Both leaders condemned Israeli aggression and urged the international community to intervene immediately to stop what they termed “barbarity” against innocent civilians.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on UN resolutions. He also thanked Iran for its continued backing of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir, calling for a peaceful resolution in line with international law.

The high-level talks concluded with a state luncheon hosted in honour of President Pezeshkian and his delegation, followed by a joint press conference where both leaders echoed their determination to transform the Pakistan-Iran partnership into a model of regional cooperation and mutual respect.

President Pezeshkian’s visit, coming at a pivotal moment in regional geopolitics, is being hailed by both governments as a powerful signal of enduring friendship and forward-looking collaboration.