Iran’s President, Raisi, arrived in Islamabad on Monday, seeking to improve economic, border, and energy connections between the two neighboring countries.
According to a statement from the Iranian presidential office, Iran aims to enhance its relationship with Pakistan as part of its neighborhood policy. Discussions during the visit will cover various topics, including economic, commercial, energy, and border issues.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement issued on Sunday, emphasized the need for better bilateral ties. The agenda for discussions between the two countries encompasses a wide range of areas such as trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people interactions.
During his visit, the Iranian president plans to tour major cities like Lahore and Karachi, focusing on strengthening bilateral trade relations.
Mosharraf Zaidi, a partner at advisory firm Tabadlab and former advisor to the Foreign Ministry, highlighted the significance of Raisi’s trip. Zaidi explained that Iran seeks support from Islamabad and Rawalpindi (military leadership) amid escalating tensions with Israel. He also noted that Iran understands Pakistan’s domestic political challenges and economic constraints, which influence its engagement in the Middle East conflict.