Pakistan Stands With Iran in Time of Grief

LAHORE: Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, paid a visit to the Iranian Consulate in Lahore where he met with Mehran Movahedfar to express condolences over the reported deaths of prominent Iranian figures.

During the meeting, the speaker conveyed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt sympathies on behalf of the people and government of Pakistan over the demise of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, former Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani, and other senior officials. He also offered Fateha for the departed souls, reflecting Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran during this period of mourning.

Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan emphasized that Pakistan stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Iran in this difficult time. He highlighted the deep-rooted ties of brotherhood, shared faith, and mutual respect that bind the two neighboring countries. The speaker noted that such tragic moments further strengthen the emotional and diplomatic connections between nations.

The Iranian Consul General appreciated the gesture, acknowledging Pakistan’s consistent support and expressing gratitude for the solidarity shown by its leadership. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close diplomatic engagement and cooperation, particularly during challenging circumstances.

The meeting underscored Pakistan’s continued efforts to foster strong humanitarian and diplomatic relations with Iran. It also reflected the broader foreign policy approach of maintaining regional harmony and mutual cooperation, especially with neighboring countries.

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Earlier, in a separate engagement, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan met with the newly appointed Chinese Consul General in Lahore, Sun Yan, at the Assembly Chamber.

The speaker warmly welcomed the consul general and congratulated him on his new assignment, expressing confidence that his tenure would further strengthen bilateral relations between Pakistan and China. He extended best wishes and reiterated the importance of sustained diplomatic collaboration between the two countries.

During the meeting, both sides discussed enhancing cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project that continues to play a central role in Pakistan’s economic development. Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan described CPEC as the “backbone” of economic growth, highlighting its significance in boosting infrastructure, trade, and regional connectivity.

He emphasized that Pakistan-China relations are built on mutual trust, longstanding friendship, and unwavering support. “Parliamentary exchanges will further deepen bilateral relations,” the speaker stated, adding that China has consistently stood by Pakistan as a reliable and sincere partner, especially during times of economic and political challenges.

Referring to the current political leadership, he noted that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, efforts are being made to expand economic cooperation and strengthen international partnerships. He also praised the role of Punjab’s provincial government, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, in steering the province toward renewed development and progress.

The discussion also covered opportunities for collaboration in education, trade, and cultural exchanges. The speaker highlighted the importance of people-to-people connections, noting that academic partnerships and student exchanges have played a vital role in strengthening ties between the two nations.

Consul General Sun Yan expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed China’s commitment to further enhancing bilateral relations. He emphasized the need to expand cooperation across multiple sectors, particularly in trade, education, and investment. He also reiterated China’s continued support for Pakistan’s development initiatives under CPEC.

The meeting was attended by several key officials, including Member of Provincial Assembly Rana Arshad, Secretary General Punjab Assembly Chaudhry Amir Habib, Principal Secretary Imad Hussain Bhalli, and Director Media Rao Majid Ali.