Iran Press/ Asia: During the meeting, Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hossein Amirabdollahian, expressed his pleasure at being in Karachi, Pakistan's economic and commercial hub. He emphasized the significance of Pakistan as a neighboring Muslim country to Iran, highlighting the extensive commonalities they share in terms of land borders, history, culture, and religion.
In recent years, both countries have taken adequate measures to enhance their relations, particularly in the economic sector. For instance, they have collaborated to open two new border terminals - "Rimdan-Gabed" and "Pishin-Mand" - along their shared border. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been signed for the establishment of six joint border markets.
Recognizing their strategic geographical positions and inclusion in international transportation corridors such as the Belt and Road Initiative, efforts have been made to leverage these advantages for bilateral and regional cooperation in transportation and transit.
Overall, this conference signifies the commitment of Iran and Pakistan to explore opportunities for economic cooperation and strengthen their ties in various sectors.
He said: It is worth mentioning that the geographical locations of the two ports, Chabahar in Iran and Gwadar in Pakistan, offer additional opportunities to enhance bilateral and regional economic cooperation between the two countries. Iran's Foreign Minister added that the economies of Iran and Pakistan are inherently complementary.
For instance, Pakistan can supply Iran's agricultural needs, while Iran can meet Pakistan's energy requirements.
To facilitate this, the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has extended the Iran-Pakistan (IP) gas pipeline to the border of Pakistan. Furthermore, Iran's electricity exports to Pakistan have been increasing. The total bilateral trade between Iran and Pakistan has also been on the rise in recent years, reaching over $2.3 billion, as emphasized by Amiabdollahian.
He further highlighted the crucial role played by the private sector in fostering bilateral economic cooperation and expressed support for developing tourism between both countries.
The Islamic Republic of Iran stands ready to provide health tourism services to Pakistani citizens. The Foreign Minister concluded by expressing hope for an ever-increasing expansion of bilateral economic and commercial cooperation between these friendly and brotherly nations of Iran and Pakistan.
206
Read More:
Tehran, Islamabad Agree to strengthen cultural ties
