Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi embarked on a diplomatic visit to Pakistan, engaging in crucial discussions with Pakistani leaders against a backdrop of escalating tensions between Iran and Israel.
According to a statement released by Islamabad’s foreign ministry ahead of Raisi’s arrival, the meetings aimed to bolster bilateral relations and foster cooperation in key areas such as trade, connectivity, energy, and agriculture.
Raisi was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the Iranian foreign minister, several Cabinet members, and business representatives.
During his three-day visit, President Raisi is set to hold talks with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, among others. The agenda includes discussions on regional and global developments, with a particular focus on bilateral cooperation in combating terrorism, although specifics were not disclosed.
Iran and Pakistan, sharing a 900-kilometer border, have experienced challenges with militant infiltration, smuggling, and illegal crossings. Both nations have accused each other of harboring militant groups and facilitating cross-border attacks.
In January, tensions escalated when Iranian security forces conducted missile strikes on alleged anti-Iran militant hideouts in Pakistan’s Baluchistan province. Islamabad condemned the violation of its territorial integrity and responded with strikes on bases of militants operating from Iranian soil.
The exchange of counterterrorism strikes raised concerns about broader conflict between the two Muslim-majority nations, particularly following an October 7 terror attack on Israel by Iran-backed Palestinian militant group Hamas.
In efforts to defuse tensions, Tehran and Islamabad have swiftly engaged in diplomatic endeavors, reaffirming commitments to enhance counterterrorism cooperation and uphold each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Raisi’s visit marks a significant step in these mutual efforts to mend relations between Iran and Pakistan amidst regional challenges.
