By Dr Lubna Farah
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Iran relations, promoting regional peace, and expanding bilateral cooperation during a joint press conference in Islamabad on Monday.
Welcoming the Iranian president, Prime Minister Shehbaz highlighted the longstanding cultural, historical, and religious bonds between the two neighboring countries. Speaking partly in Persian, he described Iran as a trusted friend and praised President Pezeshkian’s leadership and contributions to humanity.
The prime minister said Pakistan played a constructive diplomatic role in facilitating the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and remained committed to supporting peace and stability in the region. He expressed relief over the end of hostilities involving Iran and the United States while mourning the loss of lives caused by the conflict.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that Pakistan views Iran’s successes and challenges as its own and vowed to continue efforts aimed at strengthening regional harmony and cooperation.
Addressing the media, President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its warm hospitality and described the relationship between Tehran and Islamabad as one of brotherhood and mutual trust. Quoting poet-philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal, he said Pakistan and Iran are “one soul in two bodies.”
The Iranian president praised Pakistan’s role in diplomatic negotiations and peace initiatives, stating that Islamabad had made valuable contributions toward regional development, prosperity, and stability. He added that the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding was made possible through Iran’s confidence in Pakistan.
President Pezeshkian also termed his meetings with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Field Marshal Asim Munir as productive and constructive. He reiterated Iran’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Pakistan across various sectors.
The joint press conference followed a series of high-level discussions focusing on bilateral relations, regional security, and future collaboration between the two countries.
