Pakistan, Iran Vow to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation, Promote Regional Peace

TEHRAN, May 26 :Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday held wide-ranging talks at the historic Sa’dabad Palace, reaffirming their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and security, and to working jointly for peace and stability in the region.

Addressing a joint press conference following the high-level delegation talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz termed the meeting “productive and useful,” covering all areas of mutual interest and future collaboration.

“There was total agreement that the two brotherly neighbouring countries must enhance cooperation in diverse fields including trade, investment and economy,” the Prime Minister said, noting the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties between Pakistan and Iran.

He said both sides had decided to transform their traditional ties into tangible and productive cooperation. The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to the Iranian President for his recent phone call, in which he expressed concern over the evolving regional situation, particularly in South Asia.

“I deeply appreciate your sense of concern and brotherly feelings for the people of Pakistan and your ardent desire that this crisis comes to a grinding halt instead of escalating further,” he added, referencing recent tensions with India.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, the Prime Minister said, “We want peace and we will work for peace in the region through dialogue and by resolving outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions.”

He emphasized that while Pakistan seeks peaceful resolution of disputes, any aggression would be met with firm resistance. “If India is serious, we are ready to talk on water, trade, and counterterrorism. But if they remain aggressive, Pakistan will resolutely defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said.

Condemning Israeli atrocities in Gaza, the Prime Minister said over 50,000 Palestinians had been martyred, urging the international community to play its role in securing a lasting ceasefire. “Pakistan stands with its brothers and sisters in Palestine and with Iran in promoting peace, progress, and prosperity,” he stated.

He also reiterated Pakistan’s support for Iran’s right to pursue a peaceful civilian nuclear program.

President Masoud Pezeshkian welcomed the Prime Minister and his delegation, acknowledging Pakistan as an important neighbour with shared civilizational, cultural, and historical bonds. He noted that both countries had common stances on many regional and international issues, including those discussed at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The Iranian President said the two leaders agreed to further expand cooperation in politics, economy, and international diplomacy, while also implementing previously signed agreements.

He emphasized the importance of ensuring border security through joint efforts against terrorism and criminal networks. “Peace and stability in Pakistan is in the interest of Iran,” he said, adding that dialogue and consultation among neighbouring countries were essential for regional stability.

Touching on the situation in Palestine, President Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s support for the Palestinian cause and strongly condemned Israeli aggression.

Earlier, upon arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly received by the Iranian President. He was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi.