Iran Envoy Calls for Stronger Pakistan-Iran Economic and Regional Cooperation

ISLAMABAD: (News Desk) – Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Reza Amiri Moghadam has called for stronger and sustained bilateral engagement between Pakistan and Iran, saying geographical proximity offers significant opportunities to expand trade, connectivity and regional economic cooperation.

Speaking at a roundtable discussion at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) on Wednesday, the ambassador said Pakistan and Iran had deep historical, cultural and people-to-people ties and shared a strong interest in further strengthening bilateral relations.

Dr. Amiri Moghadam said the two countries’ geographical proximity could help reduce transportation and logistical costs and create greater opportunities for trade. He said Iran could serve as a gateway for Pakistan to Central Asia, the Caucasus, Türkiye and European markets, while Pakistan could provide Iran access to South Asian markets and beyond.

The Iranian envoy identified road, maritime and railway connectivity as key pillars of bilateral economic cooperation. He stressed the need to expand border crossings and improve border infrastructure, particularly in connection with Karachi, Gwadar and Bandar Abbas.

He also highlighted the potential for increased Pakistani food exports to Iran and greater transit activity through Pakistan.

On railway connectivity, the ambassador said Iran had developed rail infrastructure towards Zahedan and the Pakistani border, while further development on the Pakistani side was needed to establish an effective rail link connecting Pakistan with Central Asia and European markets.

Turning to regional security, Dr. Amiri Moghadam appreciated the solidarity shown by the Pakistani government and people during the hostilities between the United States and Iran.

He acknowledged the diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir and Pakistan’s senior leadership in seeking de-escalation and facilitating dialogue.

The ambassador said Iran remained committed to negotiations and a peaceful and sustainable solution, while maintaining its readiness to respond to security challenges when necessary.

Referring to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, he stressed that credible commitments and their implementation were essential for future diplomatic processes.

Dr. Amiri Moghadam also expressed concern over continuing tensions in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Gaza, warning that prolonged confrontation was pushing the region towards greater instability.

He called for sustained diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and promote peaceful solutions, reiterating that stronger Pakistan-Iran bilateral engagement was vital for regional peace and stability.

The roundtable was hosted by ISSI and organised by its Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa. Ambassador Moin Ul Haque, Director General ISSI, moderated the discussion.

Former senior diplomats, politicians and military officials, academics and security analysts attended the session.