President, PM and Iranian security chief discuss regional security, trade ties

ISLAMABAD: Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary, Dr Ali Ardeshir Larijani, has thanked Pakistan for its diplomatic and moral support during the 12-day war with Israel, praising the bravery and recent achievements of Pakistan’s armed forces and saying, “Pakistan’s victory is our victory.”

According to a press release issued by the President’s House, President Asif Ali Zardari held a meeting with Dr Larijani and congratulated him on assuming charge of the Supreme National Security Council.

The president said regular exchanges between Islamabad and Tehran reflect positive momentum in bilateral ties, adding that cooperation between neighbouring states is essential and in the shared interest of their people.

He said Pakistan and Iran enjoy longstanding relations rooted in history, faith and culture, and thanked Iran for its consistent support during Pakistan’s conflict with India.

President Zardari said Pakistan is keen to work with Iran to enhance bilateral trade, stressing the need to strengthen rail connectivity on a priority basis to promote trade and tourism.

Better connectivity, he said, would facilitate businesses and travellers, especially pilgrims. He added that the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline issue must be resolved mutually in a feasible manner.

Dr Larijani conveyed good wishes and congratulatory messages from Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Dr Larijani thanked Pakistan for its diplomatic and moral support during Iran’s 12-day conflict with Israel and the United States, and lauded the courage and success of the Pakistan Armed Forces in recent events. “Pakistan’s victory is our victory,” he reiterated.

Both sides also discussed regional and global developments, as well as issues related to security and counterterrorism.

Meeting with PM

Dr Larijani also met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and working together for a peaceful and prosperous future.

Prime Minister Sharif welcomed the distinguished guest at the Prime Minister’s House, highlighting the importance of the historical and close fraternal ties between the two countries, and emphasised the need to further broaden cooperation in various sectors.

Dr Larijani stressed the importance of expanding Pakistan-Iran relations in mutually beneficial areas.

During the meeting, both sides discussed significant regional and international developments and underscored the importance of coordinated efforts for peace and stability in the region.

The prime minister appreciated Iran’s principled stance on regional issues and thanked Tehran for standing by Pakistan in difficult times.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working with Iran for a peaceful and prosperous future.

Prime Minister Sharif also conveyed his respect and good wishes to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, thanking them for their support and commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Iran ties.

Dr Larijani thanked the Pakistani nation and leadership for their steadfast support during Iran’s recent 12-day conflict with Israel and praised Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic role in advocating peaceful resolution of conflicts.

It was agreed during the meeting that a delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will soon visit Iran to further strengthen cooperation in various areas, particularly agriculture, communications and connectivity.