Shehbaz Sharif and Masoud Pezeshkian Emphasize Stronger Bilateral Ties
Pakistan Iran regional peace and economic cooperation: ISLAMABAD – In a renewed diplomatic effort to reinforce peace and stability in South Asia, Pakistan and Iran on Monday reaffirmed their shared aspiration for harmonious ties with neighboring countries, positioning regional peace as a central pillar of their foreign policies.
High-Level Meeting at Sa’dabad Palace in Tehran
“The pledge was reiterated during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s meeting with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian at an official reception held at the iconic Sa’dabad Palace in Tehran.” The encounter marked a key stop in PM Shehbaz’s ongoing diplomatic tour of Türkiye, Iran, and the UAE—an initiative to express Pakistan’s appreciation to allied Muslim states for their support amid recent tensions with India.
Economic Cooperation and Investment in Focus
Both leaders emphasized a mutual resolve to deepen bilateral trade, foster investment, and collaborate on ensuring peace and security across the region.
Pakistan Reaffirms Dialogue Offer to India
Declaring Pakistan’s resolve to pursue peace through dialogue, Prime Minister Shehbaz stated, “Pakistan emerged from its recent confrontation with India with dignity and strength”, attributing it to the valor of the armed forces and national solidarity.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness for constructive dialogue with India on issues including Kashmir, water-sharing, trade, and counterterrorism—conditional on New Delhi’s genuine commitment. “Our intention is peaceful coexistence,” he said, adding Pakistan would resolutely safeguard its sovereignty if provoked.
Fruitful Talks on Strategic and Economic Development
PM Shehbaz noted that his meeting with President Pezeshkian had been fruitful, covering all aspects of bilateral interest. “We reached a clear consensus: the two fraternal nations must enhance collaboration in a wide range of sectors, especially commerce and economic development.”
Briefing Iran’s Supreme Leader on Regional Crisis
As per the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif apprised Iran’s Supreme Leader of India’s ‘expansionist agenda’ and discussed the recent regional crisis. He expressed deep gratitude for the Iranian leadership’s principled backing during the confrontation.
Shehbaz-Khamenei Meeting Highlights Strategic Ties
The Pakistani leader reaffirmed his commitment to elevating strategic relations with Iran, especially amid complex regional geopolitics. He lauded Iran’s diplomacy in nuclear negotiations and hoped for a constructive outcome.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei praised Shehbaz’s commitment to regional stability and stronger Iran-Pakistan ties, offering prayers for Pakistan’s prosperity.
Cultural Affinity and Calls for Practical Cooperation
Highlighting historical and cultural affinity, PM Shehbaz emphasized converting this bond into meaningful cooperation across sectors. He also acknowledged Pezeshkian’s earlier call of solidarity amid the Indo-Pak crisis.
Condemnation of Israeli Aggression in Gaza
Turning to global concerns, Prime Minister Shehbaz strongly condemned Israeli actions in Gaza, stating, “Over 50,000 innocent lives have been taken—this bloodshed must end.” He urged decisive international action for a lasting ceasefire.
Support for Iran’s Civilian Nuclear Rights
He affirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Iran’s right to civilian nuclear energy and expressed intent to work with Tehran on shared regional and global interests.
Pezeshkian Calls for Border Security and Diplomatic Dialogue
President Pezeshkian noted aligned positions on regional challenges and stressed the importance of securing the shared border from terrorism. “Iran’s security is deeply interconnected with Pakistan’s stability,” he said, advocating constructive diplomacy.
He expressed support for the recent Indo-Pak ceasefire and reaffirmed that “Dialogue remains the sole avenue to resolve longstanding conflicts.”
Joint Stance on Palestinian Issue
On Palestine, he reiterated Iran’s staunch opposition to Israeli atrocities, saying, “Supporting Palestine remains our top priority.”
Strategic Dialogue Between Shehbaz and Khamenei
Later, PM Shehbaz paid a courtesy call on Ayatollah Khamenei, discussing strategic regional concerns and prospects for enhanced bilateral cooperation