Iranian Foreign Minister Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian emphasized the strengthening of Iran-Pakistan relations during an economic conference in Karachi. Pakistan’s proximity and shared Muslim identity make it a crucial partner for Iran, with countless historical, religious, and cultural similarities strengthening the bond between the two countries.
Dr. Hossein highlighted the recent efforts to expand bilateral relations, particularly in the economic sector. Both Iran and Pakistan have strategic geographic positions and lie on international transportation corridors. They have entered into various agreements, including the Belt and Road initiative, to capitalize on their geographical advantages.
The two countries possess ports with significant potential for increasing bilateral and regional economic cooperation. Iran’s Chabahar port and Pakistan’s Gwadar port can be utilized to their fullest extent. Iran can help meet Pakistan’s energy demand, and the government of Iran has extended the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline. Additionally, Iran’s electricity exports to Pakistan are seeing an upward trend.
Bilateral trade between Iran and Pakistan has been steadily increasing in recent years, reflecting the growing economic ties between the two nations. In recognition of the strong cultural connection between Pakistan and Iran, the Old Clifton road in Karachi has been renamed as Shahra-e-Imam Khomeini. This gesture further strengthens the historical and cultural relations between the two countries.
The Iranian Foreign Minister’s visit to Pakistan holds great significance, as it coincides with the implementation of a five-year trade agreement between the two nations. During the inauguration ceremony, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab expressed gratitude for Dr. Hossein’s presence and highlighted the importance of Pakistan’s enduring relationship with Iran.
The naming of Shahra-e-Imam Khomeini and the attribution of Clifton Garden to Hazrat Salman Farsi symbolize the deep cultural connections between Pakistan and Iran. The respective names honor influential figures and foster a sense of shared heritage.
In summary, the economic conference in Karachi served as a platform to highlight the strengthened Iran-Pakistan relations. The bilateral cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the economic sector, has been gaining momentum in recent years. By capitalizing on their geographical advantages and shared cultural ties, Iran and Pakistan are poised to further enhance their economic partnership.
