Iranian ambassador reaffirms commitment to enhance bilateral cooperation

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday met with Ambassador of Iran Seyed Ali Mohammad Hossenei who reaffirmed Tehran's commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation and highlighted close consultations bet

Ambassador Hossenei called on the premier and reiterated felicitations from the Iranian leadership on the Shehbaz's assumption of office.

At the outset, the prime minister thanked Iran for its timely assistance in controlling the forest fire in Balochistan, highlighting that it was a testament to the strong fraternal bond that exists between the two countries and their people.

The premier also conveyed his warm greetings to the Iranian leadership and highlighted the importance of close fraternal ties between the two countries, based on shared geography, common heritage and societal linkages.

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The prime minister underlined that vast potential areas of trade and economic cooperation should be tapped by overcoming barriers and exploring new avenues of collaboration. He also emphasised on early finalisation of the Polan-Gwadar project that would provide additional 100 MW of electricity from Iran to Pakistan.

Commenting on regional ties, PM Shehbaz conveyed gratitude for Tehran’s consistent support on the issue of Kashmir, especially by Iran’s Supreme Leader. He expressed hope that with continued support from the international community, the people of Kashmir would achieve their right to self-determination, in accordance with the United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions.

The premier also highlighted the precarious humanitarian and economic situation in Afghanistan and expressed his belief that the people of Afghanistan should be provided access to frozen assets.

He appreciated close coordination between the two countries on the situation in Afghanistan.

PM Shehbaz also emphasised that in view of the countries’ historic relations, the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations should be celebrated by both countries in a befitting manner.

While emphasizing the importance of high-level exchanges, the Prime Minister renewed his invitation to the Iranian leadership to visit Pakistan, at an early date.