KARBALA, Tuesday, December 23, 2025 (WNP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday underscored the importance of strengthening Pakistan–Iraq relations, with a particular focus on cultural exchange, tourism promotion and the preservation of historical heritage, during a luncheon hosted in his honour by the Governor of Karbala, Dr Nassif Al-Khattabi.

During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on enhancing people-to-people contacts, expanding cultural cooperation and promoting religious and heritage tourism, while also emphasizing the need to safeguard and preserve historical and sacred sites of shared significance.

President Zardari expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation, noting that such engagements contribute to deepening mutual understanding and reinforcing the longstanding bonds between Pakistan and Iraq.

The president reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties with Iraq, highlighting the potential for closer cooperation in cultural and tourism-related initiatives that can benefit both nations and foster closer links between their peoples.