Pakistan to boost trade and connectivity with Iran

WEB DESK: Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, stressed the importance of strengthening trade and connectivity between Pakistan and Iran during a meeting on Tuesday.

The Prime Minister made these remarks while hosting Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam, who had paid a courtesy visit.

The discussions, as reported on X (formerly Twitter), highlighted various areas of cooperation including trade, energy, transportation, cultural exchanges, counter-terrorism measures, and security collaboration.

Prime Minister Shehbaz underscored the mutual benefits of enhanced collaboration and urged both nations to work together towards achieving these goals.

He also expressed gratitude for Iran’s support on matters concerning Jammu and Kashmir, and engaged in talks regarding the situation in Palestine.

Ambassador Moghadam reiterated Iran’s commitment to strengthening ties with Pakistan across all spheres of mutual interest, affirming a shared desire for closer cooperation.

These discussions occur against the backdrop of recent developments regarding Pakistan’s energy needs. Federal Minister for Energy, Dr. Musadik Masood Malik, had earlier indicated efforts to secure a waiver from US sanctions on the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, aiming to address Pakistan’s energy deficit.

However, the US expressed reservations about the project, warning of potential sanctions for Pakistan’s engagement with Iran.

The Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, also known as the Peace Pipeline, has encountered challenges over the years, including delays and funding issues. Despite this, the project remains a significant endeavor aimed at transporting natural gas from Iran to Pakistan.

In light of US concerns, Washington has stressed its commitment to assisting Pakistan in addressing its energy crisis, highlighting support for the addition of approximately 4,000 megawatts of clean energy capacity in the country.