ISLAMABAD: In a bid to strengthen regional stability and enhance cooperation on security issues, Pakistan and Iran have agreed to work closely on border security and counter-terrorism initiatives.
The agreement was made during a press conference in Islamabad, attended by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.
At the press event, Ishaq Dar welcomed his Iranian counterpart, emphasizing Pakistan’s stance on recent escalations in Gaza.
Dar condemned Israel’s actions in the region, describing them as violations of international law that risk destabilizing the Middle East. He called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and advocated for diplomatic solutions to conflicts in both Gaza and Kashmir.
Dar and Araqchi highlighted a shared commitment to combat terrorism, particularly along the Pakistan-Iran border. “Terrorism remains a shared challenge for both countries,” Dar noted, affirming Pakistan’s readiness to collaborate closely with Iran to secure mutual borders.
Regarding Palestine, both ministers voiced a firm stance on the issue, with Araqchi commending Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian cause.
He emphasized the need for international intervention, stating that continued global inaction has allowed the crisis to worsen. Araqchi also expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s humanitarian aid to Palestinian and Lebanese refugees, acknowledging the country’s significant role in fostering regional stability.
The Iranian foreign minister’s visit is part of broader diplomatic discussions by Tehran with neighboring countries as it contemplates a response to Israel’s recent airstrikes on military sites within Iran.
Araqchi will also meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to further discuss bilateral ties and regional security.
