ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed a strong commitment to transform Pakistan-Iran trade relations, aiming to skyrocket bilateral trade from the current $3 billion to a staggering $10 billion in the coming years.
Speaking during his official visit to Tehran after concluding a trip to Turkiye, the prime minister emphasized that both nations possess untapped economic potential that could reshape regional dynamics.
In an interview before landing in Tehran, Shehbaz highlighted the remarkable growth in trade over the past three to four years and hinted at the possibility of a free trade agreement (FTA). “The economic destiny of both countries is interlinked,” he asserted, referring to the shared 900-kilometer border and deep-rooted cultural ties.
Regional Unity Through Economic Growth
Shehbaz Sharif underscored that economic integration between Pakistan’s Balochistan and Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan could play a transformative role in fostering regional peace and curbing terrorism.
The two nations have already signed several memoranda of understanding to enhance cooperation at the provincial level.
During his visit, the premier also thanked Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian for Iran’s diplomatic support during Pakistan’s recent conflict with India. “India imposed war on us, and we responded decisively yet responsibly, consistent with international law,” said Shehbaz. He appreciated Iran’s offer to mediate—a gesture rejected by India but welcomed by Pakistan.
Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s continued backing for Iran on Muslim world issues and emphasized unity over the Kashmir and Palestine causes.
He stated that peace and justice in the region remain elusive without resolving these two core issues.
