PM Sharif, Iranian President Pezeshkian begin high-stake bilateral talks

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian began a crucial bilateral meeting at the Prime Minister’s House on Tuesday to discuss regional security, economic cooperation, and trade ties.

The high-level meeting is being attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar,  Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and others.

Following the conclusion of the meeting, the two leaders will head extensive delegation-level talks between Pakistan and Iran to formalise bilateral agreements and strengthen regional frameworks.

Earlier, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrived at the Prime Minister’s House on Tuesday, where he was warmly received by Prime Minister Sharif to begin the formal leg of his high-profile state visit to Pakistan.

The two leaders exchanged warm pleasantries before President Pezeshkian was presented with a formal guard of honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the armed forces. The national anthems of both Iran and Pakistan were played during the ceremony.

President Pezeshkian, who is accompanied by a high-level political and economic delegation including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, is scheduled to hold a one-on-one meeting with Prime Minister Sharif. This will be followed by restricted delegation-level talks aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, energy cooperation, and regional security frameworks.

Following his engagements at the PM House, President Pezeshkian proceeded to the President’s House, where he was formally welcomed by President Asif Ali Zardari for further high-level exchanges.

Aside from official diplomatic talks, the Iranian president will be conferred with an honorary fellowship by the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) during his stay.

Earlier, President Pezeshkian landed at the Nur Khan Airbase to a lavish state welcome complete with military honours, aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties. He was accorded a grand 21-gun salute and an aerial escort by Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder jets.

He was received at the tarmac by President Zardari, Prime Minister Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and senior political and military leadership.

This marks Pezeshkian’s second official visit to Pakistan since taking office.