Why it matters:
This marks Qalibaf’s first official trip to Pakistan since assuming the position of parliament speaker. The visit comes amid heightened regional tensions following the recent 12-day Israeli war against Iran, during which Pakistan’s government, parliament, and public expressed strong support for Iran.
The big picture:
Qalibaf will meet with leaders of both Pakistan’s National Assembly and Senate, including Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani.
He is also scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other senior officials.
His itinerary includes visits to Lahore and Karachi, where he will meet with cultural figures, religious scholars, and business leaders.
What he’s saying:
Iran and Pakistan share a "unique" partnership spanning Central Asia, West Asia, and the Subcontinent, Qalibaf told reporters before departing from Tehran's Mehrabad Airport.
The visit, he said, presents an opportunity to follow up on recent presidential agreements, particularly those related to cross-border trade zones.
He emphasized the need for Islamic countries to coordinate against foreign interference — particularly from the United States — and described Israel as a “clear and ongoing threat” to the region.
Key points:
Qalibaf’s trip reflects Tehran’s push to expand regional diplomacy amid U.S. sanctions and growing instability. Iran views Pakistan as a crucial partner in countering external pressures and advancing shared security and economic objectives.
Go deeper:
Iran, Pakistan Call for Islamic Unity Against Israeli Aggression
Hossein Amiri - Mojtaba Darabi
