Pakistan Is Our Second Home,” Says Iranian President

Islamabad — Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Iran, emphasizing that both countries are determined to expand bilateral trade to $10 billion. He made these remarks during a joint press conference with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, who is visiting Pakistan for the first time since assuming office.

Speaking at the event held at the Prime Minister’s House, PM Shehbaz Sharif stated that the foundation of Pakistan-Iran relations is rooted in shared cultural, religious, and geographical bonds. He highlighted that both nations are united in their stand against terrorism and committed to enhancing cooperation to secure their long borders and promote regional peace.

“We fully support Iran’s nuclear program for peaceful purposes,” the Prime Minister said, reaffirming Pakistan’s principled stance in favor of sovereign rights under the UN Charter. He also condemned Israel’s recent aggression against Iran, describing it as unjustified and without credible evidence. He expressed solidarity with the Iranian people and paid tribute to their resilience and leadership during recent hostilities.

Referring to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, PM Shehbaz lauded Iran’s consistent support for Palestine and emphasized the need for the international community to speak in one voice to stop the ongoing atrocities. He urged urgent global action to prevent further bloodshed and famine-like conditions in Gaza.

On the Kashmir issue, PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the rights of the Kashmiri people and thanked Iran for its continued moral and diplomatic backing.

Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, in his remarks, described Pakistan as a “brotherly nation” and “second home” for Iranians. Citing Quranic verses and the teachings of Allama Iqbal, he stressed unity in the Islamic world and the importance of strengthening historical and cultural ties. He also thanked Pakistan for its clear stance against Israeli and American hostilities toward Iran.

President Pezeshkian expressed optimism that bilateral trade — currently around $3 billion — could rapidly grow to $10 billion through enhanced cooperation. He noted that both countries had signed multiple agreements covering trade, transportation, science and technology, culture, tourism, and defense.

Twelve agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged during the high-level meeting, covering the following key areas:

• Plant Protection and Quarantine

• Mutual Use of Mirjaveh-Taftan Border Gate

• Scientific and Technological Cooperation

• ICT Development

• Cultural Exchange Programs (2025–2027)

• Meteorological Collaboration

• Maritime Safety and Firefighting

• Judicial Assistance in Criminal Matters

• Supplementary Air Services Agreement

• Standards, Product Registration, and Quality Control

• Tourism Cooperation

• Framework for a Free Trade Agreement

The Iranian delegation included senior ministers from the fields of industry, foreign affairs, technology, and urban development. Both leaders emphasized the need for joint efforts to curb terrorism in border areas and to develop regional trade routes including rail, road, and sea corridors.

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At the conclusion of the event, President Pezeshkian extended a formal invitation to PM Shehbaz Sharif to visit Iran, underscoring the need for sustained high-level engagement to deepen bilateral relations.

The visit marks a significant step in enhancing Pakistan-Iran cooperation amid evolving regional dynamics and shared challenges.