By Adnan Rafique
ISLAMABAD: Brig General Hojjatollah Qoreishi, Deputy Minister for Defence of Islamic Republic of Iran called on Minister for Defence & Defence Production, Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Friday.
The Minister expressed the views that both countries enjoyed cordial and fraternal ties, nourished by centuries-old religious and cultural affinities, said a press release.
He stated that Pakistan was grateful for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei’s strong and unwavering support for the just struggle of people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Both sides showed satisfaction over existing collaboration aimed at extensive cooperation in areas of common interest in future.
Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad on Monday for a two-day official visit to enhance cooperation between Iran and Pakistan. Araghchi’s itinerary includes discussions on various issues, including trade, energy, and border security, reflecting both nations’ intentions to strengthen ties amidst an evolving Middle East landscape.
According to the Foreign Office (FO), the Iranian minister is scheduled to meet separately with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar. The visit, the FO stated, “provides an important opportunity to advance cooperation and dialogue” on strategic and economic fronts.
Among other key topics, Araghchi is expected to touch upon the upcoming Islamic Summit in Saudi Arabia, sources said, highlighting the importance of regional diplomacy.
Security at the Pakistan-Iran border will also be high on the agenda following a period of strained relations between the two countries earlier this year.
This visit follows a landmark visit by Iran’s late president Ebrahim Raisi in April, underscoring his administration’s efforts to deepen cooperation with Pakistan. Araghchi’s visit could signal renewed momentum towards bilateral stability and mutual interests in a shifting regional environment.
