ISLAMABAD, Oct 8 (IN): Ambassador of Iran to Pakistan Dr. Reza Amiri Moghadam has emphasized the need to further strengthen Pakistan-Iran economic and strategic cooperation, particularly in trade, connectivity, transit and regional economic integration.Addressing a roundtable discussion at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), the Iranian ambassador said Pakistan and Iran, as neighbouring countries with deep historical, cultural and people-to-people ties, shared a strong interest in expanding bilateral relations across all areas.He noted that geographical proximity offered significant opportunities to enhance bilateral trade by reducing transportation and logistical costs.
He highlighted Iran’s potential as a gateway for Pakistan to Central Asia, the Caucasus, Türkiye and European markets, while Pakistan could provide Iran access to South Asian markets and beyond.The ambassador identified road, maritime and railway connectivity as key pillars of bilateral economic cooperation. He called for greater cooperation among Karachi, Gwadar and Bandar Abbas and stressed the importance of expanding border crossings and upgrading border infrastructure.He also highlighted opportunities for increased Pakistani food exports to Iran and greater transit activity through Pakistan. Regarding railway connectivity, he said Iran had developed infrastructure towards Zahedan and the Pakistani border, while further development on the Pakistani side was needed to establish an effective rail link connecting Pakistan with Central Asian and European markets.
Discussing regional security, Dr. Amiri Moghadam appreciated the solidarity shown by the Government and people of Pakistan during the hostilities between the United States and Iran. He also acknowledged the diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir and Pakistan’s senior leadership to promote de-escalation and dialogue.He said Iran remained committed to negotiations and a peaceful and sustainable solution while maintaining its readiness to respond to security challenges if necessary.Referring to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the ambassador stressed that credible commitments and their effective implementation were essential for future diplomatic processes.He expressed concern over continuing tensions in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Gaza, warning that prolonged confrontation was increasing instability in the region. He called for sustained diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and promote peaceful solutions.
The ambassador concluded by stressing that stronger and sustained Pakistan-Iran engagement was vital for regional peace, stability and economic cooperation.The roundtable was organised by the Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at ISSI and moderated by Ambassador Moin Ul Haque, Director General ISSI. Former senior diplomats, politicians, military officials, academics and security analysts attended the discussion.
