Balochistan, Iran pledge to continue bilateral cooperation

CM Bugti accepts Iranian ambassador's invite to visit Tehran

QUETTA:

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti held a meeting with Iran's Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr Reza Amiri Moghaddam, at the Chief Minister's Secretariat. The two leaders discussed enhancing bilateral ties in trade, education, culture, and social development.

CM Bugti welcomed the Iranian delegation and emphasised the historical and close relations between Pakistan and Iran. He noted the importance of strengthening trade and cultural ties, saying, "Both nations have always stood together in times of need, and it is essential to further solidify these relations," he said.

Dr Moghaddam offered to increase trade volumes, provide educational scholarships, and collaborate in technical education and social development initiatives. CM Bugti expressed his commitment to resolving issues faced by traders and announced plans to enhance trade links and address border-related challenges in partnership with the federal government.

The CM assured Iranian traders of smooth operations for legal trade consignments and proposed appointing a liaison officer from the Iranian Consulate to ensure efficient coordination with provincial authorities. He welcomed the ambassador's offer of scholarships, especially for the Hazara community in Quetta, and proposed collaboration to design effective programs.

Accepting an invitation to visit Iran, CM Bugti announced plans for a delegation visit to further strengthen cooperation. He also praised the appointment of a Baloch governor in Iran's Sistan region as a positive development. The meeting concluded with an exchange of souvenirs and a mutual commitment to fostering stronger ties.

Pakistan and Iran share deep historical, cultural, and religious ties, but their relationship has faced challenges, particularly concerning the Balochistan region.