ISLAMABAD, Wednesday, June 25, 2025 (WNP): Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani and Iranian Ambassador Dr. Reza Amiri Moghaddam held an in-depth meeting on Wednesday to review the evolving regional situation and explore avenues to further strengthen Pakistan-Iran bilateral relations.

Addressing the recent Iran-Israel conflict, Chairman Gilani welcomed the ceasefire and praised Iran’s leadership, armed forces, and people for their resilience and strategic restraint. “We commend the effective approach of Iranian leadership that prevented further escalation and led to a ceasefire,” he said.

Expressing solidarity with Iran, Gilani offered condolences over the loss of senior military officers, nuclear scientists, and civilians in Israeli strikes. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Iran’s sovereignty and its legitimate right to self-defence under the UN Charter.

The Senate Chairman underscored Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, including multiple communications by the Prime Minister with Iranian leadership since June 13. “Our leadership and Parliament have consistently condemned Israeli aggression and blatant violations of Iran’s territorial integrity,” he said, noting Pakistan’s endorsement of the joint statement by the 51st OIC Foreign Ministers’ Conference and support from 21 Arab and African countries.

He also recalled his past engagements with Iranian leadership as both Speaker of the National Assembly and Prime Minister, emphasizing his high regard for the longstanding fraternal ties between the two nations. “Relations with Iran have always been of utmost importance, and our meetings have remained productive,” he remarked, also referencing recent interactions in Baku during IPU and NAM events.

Gilani stressed the need for increased high-level exchanges, enhanced defence cooperation, and deeper economic ties. He highlighted the importance of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in streamlining trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.

He noted that the Senate of Pakistan recently passed a resolution condemning Israeli aggression and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability. Reflecting on past challenges, he also mentioned Pakistan’s responsible role in diffusing tensions with India, including diplomatic outreach that helped convey Pakistan’s position to the international community.

“Islam is a religion of peace,” Gilani emphasized, calling for greater unity among Muslim nations to address collective challenges.

Ambassador Dr. Reza Amiri Moghaddam thanked the Senate Chairman, National Assembly, and the people of Pakistan for their consistent and vocal support during the recent crisis. He briefed Gilani on the Iran-Israel situation and reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Islamabad.