Pakistan and Iran have reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening regional connectivity, with particular attention on enhancing the rail link between the two countries to support trade and tourism. In a meeting held at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Wednesday, President Asif Ali Zardari welcomed Dr. Ali Ardashir Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, to discuss avenues for deeper cooperation, according to an official press release. The discussions underscored the importance of improved transport infrastructure in facilitating businesses, easing travel for Zaireen, and expanding bilateral trade between Islamabad and Tehran.
President Zardari emphasized that upgrading the Pakistan-Iran rail connection should be treated as a priority initiative, highlighting its potential to streamline the movement of goods and passengers while contributing to a more integrated regional economy. The President also welcomed Dr. Larijani on assuming his new role and recalled recent engagements, including his meeting with the Iranian President in August, as examples of positive momentum in bilateral relations. He expressed appreciation for Iran’s support following Pakistan’s recent floods and the humanitarian assistance provided by the Iranian Red Crescent, reflecting the longstanding history of cooperation between the two nations.
During the meeting, both leaders reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Iran amid regional tensions and praised the resilience of the Iranian people. President Zardari also recognized Iran’s principled stance on issues affecting Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine, reinforcing the shared diplomatic priorities of both countries. Energy cooperation was another key topic, with the President calling for a mutually workable solution for the Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline in light of Pakistan’s rising energy demands. He noted that recent technical talks in Islamabad had set the stage for further progress in upcoming discussions scheduled in Tehran.
Dr. Larijani conveyed greetings from Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, thanking Pakistan for its diplomatic and moral support during the 12-day conflict earlier this year. He further highlighted that directives had been issued to provide preferential access for Pakistani products in Iranian markets, aiming to achieve the ambitious target of US$10 billion in bilateral trade. Senior officials from both sides attended the meeting, including Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Syed Nayyar Hussain Bukhari, and Secretaries of Foreign Affairs and National Security. The Iranian delegation comprised key officials including Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam and senior deputies overseeing foreign policy, security, and regional affairs.
The discussions signal a commitment from both countries to leverage historical, cultural, and economic ties, advancing practical cooperation in trade, transport, energy, and diplomatic initiatives. Strengthening the rail network and facilitating trade corridors are expected to enhance regional economic integration, support tourism, and create new opportunities for businesses operating along the Pakistan-Iran border. Both sides agreed to continue high-level dialogue and technical coordination to ensure these initiatives translate into tangible outcomes for the region.
Follow the PakBanker Whatsapp Channel for updates across Pakistan’s banking ecosystem.