During an international gathering focused on climate-resilient Pakistan, the nation’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, took the opportunity to address a series of new agreements between Pakistan and Iran. These agreements, signed on a Sunday, demonstrated the dedication of both nations to strengthen their bilateral trade relationships. The ultimate goal is a substantial increase in bilateral trade, setting an ambitious target of $10 billion. Both countries also made a commitment to enhance cooperation in combating terrorism in order to foster peace and prosperity in the region.
The agreements were signed in the presence of the Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian. These agreements span numerous sectors, ranging from energy to trade. The two-day visit of President Pezeshkian provided an opportunity for both nations to reaffirm their commitment to enhancing their economic bonds, underpinned by a spirit of mutual benefit and respect.
Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke about the hopes and ambitions linked to the bilateral trade agreement. ‘Our aim is to achieve a $10 billion benchmark in our trade relations, and we are optimistic about reaching this target in the near future,’ expressed Prime Minister Sharif.
Furthermore, he echoed Pakistan’s stance of supporting Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy usage as dictated by the UN charter. He highlighted that Pakistan staunchly opposes any unjust aggression against Iran. The unprovoked actions of Israel against Iran were condemned, with Shehbaz Sharif emphasizing there was ‘no justification’ for such aggression.
A crucial part of the pledge between Pakistan and Iran involves cooperating to combat terrorism. According to Sharif, the two nations will take effective measures to eradicate the dangers of terrorism, unlocking prospects of increased prosperity and peace across the region. This echoes a shared resolve to maintain regional stability for the betterment of both nations.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian shared Prime Minister Sharif’s optimism about reaching the trade goal. He asserted, ‘I hold a firm conviction that we can indeed achieve a dramatic augmentation of our trade relations in a brief span, elevating them from the current $3 billion to our aspirational target of $10 billion.’
President Pezeshkian was appreciative of the support extended by Pakistan’s government and its citizens during trying times. He expressed gratitude to Pakistan for providing unwavering support to Iran during a distressing twelve-day period of aggressive actions by the US and Israeli forces.
Historically, Pakistan and Iran’s interstate relationships have seen their fair share of turbulence. This is particularly true concerning the issue of cross-border militancy. A further spike in tensions was observed in January 2024 when both nations came to the brink of a military confrontation, launching reciprocal missile strikes.
However, amidst periods of heightened tension and disagreements, the diplomatic channels between Pakistan and Iran have never fully closed. Both nations understand the significance of maintaining these open lines of communication and negotiation, an essential part of fostering peaceful relations.
Still, the newly signed agreements marked a positive turn in the bilateral relations. The ambitious trade goal, comprehensive commitment to counter-terrorism, and mutual acknowledgment of peaceful nuclear energy usage illustrate a shift in tactics, aiming to build stronger, more robust relations between the countries.
While reaching the ambitious trade target represents a serious challenge given current levels, both leaders showcased their shared conviction towards achieving this goal. The envisioned three-fold increase in trade showcases an ambition and optimism that pervade the bilateral relationship between Iran and Pakistan.
The agreement to cooperate and jointly combat terrorism also marks a significant step forward. Such an undertaking not only benefits both nations but also contributes to greater peace and stability in the entire region. Both countries have shown great resolve in undertaking this challenge.
Further underlining this sentiment, Sharif noted that the agreements with Iran are not confined to trade. Apart from the ambitious goal of reaching $10 billion in bilateral trade, the agreement also extends to strengthen cooperation across various sectors, including energy, which is key for sustainable development.
The endorsement of Iran’s right to harness nuclear energy peacefully sends a strong diplomatic message to the international community. It reflects Pakistan’s willingness to ensure that all nations have the opportunity to utilize nuclear resources for the benefit of their citizens, while conforming to the UN charter. This endorsement also reaffirms Pakistan’s stance against unprovoked aggression, underlining its commitment to the principles of justice and fairness in international relations.
Balancing the articulation of support for Iran’s peaceful nuclear endeavors, the Pakistani Prime Minister has also condemned unlawful and unprovoked aggression against Iran. It showcases a consistent alignment with the norms of international law and commitment to the principles of peace and justice.
Ultimately, the agreements testify to a sincere aspiration to sustain and propagate peace and prosperity throughout the region. Together, Iran and Pakistan pave a path of common understanding and mutual cooperation with these comprehensive agreements. It is a display of intersecting national interests driving the pursuit of shared goals, signaling a period of promising transformation in their bilateral relations.
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