KABUL: Pakistan and Iran have signed several agreements committing to increasing bilateral trade to $10 billion and to work effectively together against terrorism for regional peace and prosperity. The agreements, covering various sectors including energy and trade, were signed during Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s two-day visit to Pakistan. In a joint press conference, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated, “We have set a target of $10 billion for trade and hope to achieve it soon.” He reiterated Pakistan’s support for Iran’s right to pursue a peaceful nuclear program in accordance with the United Nations Charter. Sharif added that both countries would pave the way for eliminating terrorism and fostering growth and prosperity in the region. President Pezeshkian also noted that reaching the $10 billion trade level is attainable, which would mean tripling the current trade. Relations between Iran and Pakistan have not always been stable, often strained by militant activities in border areas. In January 2024, tensions peaked when both countries exchanged missile strikes. Despite these conflicts, both sides have maintained diplomatic channels. In May, Iran’s Foreign Minister visited Pakistan amid escalating tensions with India. Additionally, during the conflict between Iran and Israel, Pakistan supported Iran’s right to self-defense and condemned U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
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