Why it matters:
The agreement represents a strategic push by both nations to deepen economic ties amid regional tensions and Iran's efforts to counterbalance Western sanctions through enhanced neighborly relations which the Iranian leader Ayatollah Khameni emphasizes.
Driving the news:
Iranian Agriculture Minister Gholamreza Nouri held back-to-back meetings in Islamabad with Pakistan's Ministers for Food Security and Commerce, resulting in agreements to accelerate joint mechanisms in agriculture, livestock, and trade.
What they're saying:
"Both countries are pursuing the goal of reaching $10 billion in trade by 2028," Pakistan's Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan announced. "Extensive planning is underway, but achieving this will require greater effort from both sides."
During the food security talks, Nouri Ghezeljeh addressed recent domestic developments in Iran, noting that "some foreign agents tried to turn economic protests into riots, but the massive presence of people in support of the government demonstrates the country's internal stability and cohesion."
Pakistani Food Security Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain praised Iran's defense capabilities and reaffirmed that "support for Iran's sovereignty and territorial integrity is a fundamental principle of Pakistan's foreign policy."
Between the lines:
The target represents a massive surge from current trade volumes, signaling serious political will, though officials acknowledged the difficulties of the goal.
The details:
A joint committee on agriculture will be formed with representatives from both nations
Pakistan identified rice, bananas, mangoes, corn, and meat as products with strong potential in the Iranian market- the both sides agreed to accelerate existing cooperation mechanisms with clear timelines
The big picture:
The visits follow recent exchanges between the two countries, which officials describe as demonstrating "serious commitment" to strengthening ties. Both sides expressed optimism that existing capacities, combined with strengthened cooperation frameworks, would yield significant progress in agriculture, livestock, and trade sectors.
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