Why it matters:
Strengthening economic relations between Iran and Pakistan signals a joint effort to deepen bilateral cooperation amid shared regional security concerns and the ongoing instability caused by Israel’s aggressive policies in West Asia.
What he’s saying:
Qalibaf said one of the main objectives of his trip was to “expand economic relations and increase the volume of exchanges between the two countries,” expressing optimism about achieving this goal. He thanked the people of Pakistan for their “support for the Iranian nation in confronting the Zionist regime’s aggressions,” describing Iran–Pakistan ties as rooted in “deep friendship.”
Referring to the recent 12-day Israeli war on Iran, Qalibaf said, “Although the initial hours were difficult for us, we responded swiftly. Since the establishment of the illegitimate Zionist regime in 1948, it has never received such a strong blow.”
He stressed that Iran and Pakistan, given their many shared interests, “can stand together against the excesses of the Zionist regime and its backers,” and can cooperate across “political, economic, and cultural domains.”
What they’re saying:
Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq praised Iran’s support for Pakistan and congratulated the Iranian nation on its “victory over the Zionist regime.” He said, “During Israel’s attack on Iran, Pakistan’s parliament passed a resolution condemning the aggression, as we regard Israel as a common enemy of both Iran and Pakistan.”
Sadiq described the two nations as “one people divided by a border” and announced that Iran–Pakistan friendship groups will meet to “design a new strategic roadmap for advancing bilateral cooperation,” with senior parliamentary officials set to discuss these issues in depth.
Key points:
- Qalibaf’s visit focuses on boosting Iran–Pakistan economic ties and increasing trade volume.
- Both sides condemned Israel’s actions and stressed unity against Zionist aggression.
- Pakistan reaffirmed solidarity with Iran through a parliamentary resolution.
Go deeper:
Iran, Pakistan Aim for $10B Trade by 2028
ahmad shirzadian - Mojtaba Darabi
