ISLAMABAD: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held separate meetings with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with the two sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and promoting regional peace.
According to a statement issued by the Presidency, President Zardari and Pezeshkian discussed bilateral relations, regional connectivity and economic cooperation. The leaders reiterated their resolve to deepen Pakistan-Iran relations and work jointly for peace and stability in the region.
Welcoming Pezeshkian on his first visit to Pakistan following the recent conflict, Zardari said the trip reflected the two countries’ commitment to standing by each other in times of both joy and adversity. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Zardari congratulated the Iranian president on the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and expressed hope that technical-level negotiations would lead to lasting peace. He emphasized that Pakistan has consistently opposed unilateral actions and supported dialogue as a means of resolving regional and global challenges.
The Pakistani president also stressed the importance of unity within the Muslim world and underscored the significance of maintaining strong brotherly relations with Gulf countries.
According to the statement, Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its positive and constructive efforts to promote peace and dialogue and appreciated Islamabad’s support during recent difficult circumstances.
The Iranian president said Tehran attaches great importance to its relations with Pakistan and seeks to expand cooperation in political, economic, security and regional affairs.
Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also met with Pezeshkian, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir attended the meeting, while delegation-level talks between the two countries were also scheduled.