The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially confirmed that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will embark on an official visit to Pakistan from April 22 to 24, starting tomorrow (Monday).
Accompanied by his spouse and a prominent delegation including the foreign minister, cabinet members, and senior officials, as well as a sizable business delegation, President Raisi’s visit marks the first by any head of state to Pakistan following the February 8 elections.
The confirmation follows the formulation of a comprehensive security plan for President Raisi’s visit, with Iranian security squad members arriving in Pakistan to assess the arrangements made by Pakistani authorities, according to sources from the Interior Ministry cited by The News.
In light of tensions between Iran and Israel, multiple law enforcement agencies, including the National Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA) and intelligence agencies, will collaborate to ensure a peaceful environment during the visit. Stringent security measures will encompass air surveillance and temporary internet suspension during the dignitary’s movements.
During his stay, President Raisi is scheduled to hold meetings with Pakistani leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and other senior officials such as Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza Gilani and National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, as well as provincial leaders.
The visit aims to explore an extensive agenda aimed at bolstering bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people exchanges. Discussions will also cover regional and global developments, along with bilateral collaboration to counter the common threat of terrorism.
Of significant importance is the Pak-Iran gas pipeline project, reflecting the shared economic interests between the two nations.
President Raisi’s visit underscores ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation, despite a temporary setback earlier this year. In January, bilateral relations soured following cross-border strikes by Tehran, prompting Pakistan to take defensive measures. However, diplomatic ties were swiftly restored, with ambassadors from both countries returning to their posts.
