Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its historic and brotherly ties with Iran during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi in Islamabad on Tuesday. The prime minister emphasized the importance of maintaining regular high-level exchanges and expanding cooperation across a range of shared interests.
During the meeting, PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s just struggle for self-determination and statehood. He condemned Israel’s ongoing actions against the Palestinians and stressed the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, unimpeded humanitarian aid, and the recognition of the Palestinians’ right to self-determination, as outlined by UN resolutions and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
The prime minister also condemned Israel’s attack on Iran on October 26, 2024, and reiterated Pakistan’s support for Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In welcoming Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on his first official visit to Pakistan, PM Shehbaz extended his best regards to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and President Massoud Pezeshkian. Araghchi expressed his appreciation for Pakistan’s principled stance on regional matters and provided an overview of Iran’s perspective on the current situation in the region.
Additionally, Araghchi and his delegation met with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, where the two sides emphasized the importance of enhancing bilateral ties, particularly in trade, energy cooperation, and border management. They expressed mutual interest in exploring new opportunities for trade, investment, and stronger people-to-people connections.
Both sides highlighted the significance of regional connectivity and expressed a shared commitment to tackling common challenges through collaborative efforts. The leaders also condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, reaffirming their collective support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and vowing to strengthen the unique partnership between Pakistan and Iran for the benefit of both nations.