Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a joint press conference in Islamabad today, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and Iran, regional developments, and the challenges facing the Muslim Ummah. Several agreements and memoranda of understanding were signed during the meeting.
Welcoming the Iranian President and his delegation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Iran as a "brotherly and friendly nation."
He said, "We held comprehensive discussions on all aspects of our bilateral relations. Several MoUs have been signed, which will soon be translated into formal agreements."
The Prime Minister emphasized the commitment of both nations to achieving a trade target of $10 billion and expressed a shared stance on combating terrorism.
Condemning Israeli aggression against Iran, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif remarked, "Israel's aggression against Iran was completely unjustified. Iranian forces and leadership responded with remarkable strength and made firm decisions against the enemy, Pakistan supports Iran's nuclear program for peaceful purposes".
Talking about the ongoing Israeli brutality in Gaza "The massacre of innocent children and women continues. Food is being weaponized. There is an urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and a united global response."
He added, "The valley of Kashmir is stained with the blood of the oppressed. Pakistan has always raised its voice for the rights of the Kashmiri people."
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian:
President Pezeshkian began his remarks with a verse from Holy Quran and stressed the importance of unity within the Muslim Ummah. He thanked Pakistan for its hospitality and support against Israeli aggression:
"Iran and Pakistan share a bond rooted in common culture and religion. The poetry of Allama Iqbal serves as a beacon for us."
He affirmed Iran's commitment to strengthening ties with Pakistan in political, economic, and cultural spheres, mentioning ongoing efforts to establish joint economic zones and enhance border trade.
Holding Israel responsible for regional instability, President Pezeshkian stated, "Israeli aggression in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria reflects its sinister ambitions. The United Nations and the Security Council must take immediate notice."
The high-level talks and reaffirmed commitments are seen as a significant step towards deepening Pakistan-Iran relations amid ongoing regional tensions.
