Tehran, 27 October 2021 (TDI): Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, met President of Iran, Seyyed Ibrahim Raisi. The meeting took place on 26th October, in Tehran, on sidelines of the 2nd Ministerial Meeting of Neighboring Countries of Afghanistan.
Foreign Minister was also accompanied by Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Muhammad Sadiq, Pakistan’s ambassador to Iran, Rahim Hayat, and several other senior officials.
The meeting was focused on bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran, as well as, developments in Afghanistan. The two sides also exchanged views on prospects of diversifying relations between the two countries.
Pak-Iran Relations
Speaking on the occasion, Foreign Minister Qureshi said Pakistan highly values its relations with Iran grounded on geographical proximity, common border and a shared goal of peace and development.
Likewise, President Raisi said the recent exchange of economic and political delegations has extended cooperation between the countries.
The Foreign Minister also thanked the Iranian leadership for its unwavering support on the Kashmir issue. He stated the people of Kashmir look forward to Tehran’s support in their just struggle for freedom.
Both sides pledged to further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
Developments in Afghanistan
Furthermore, Foreign Minister Qureshi apprised the Iranian President of Pakistan’s efforts for regional peace, especially in Afghanistan. He urged the regional countries to continue consolations on peace and development in Afghanistan. He added peace in Afghanistan will lead to regional stability and connectivity as well as economic development. The Foreign Minister also called the international community to extend humanitarian assistance to Kabul. This is pertinent to avert a humanitarian and economic crisis in the country.
Sharing his views on Afghanistan, President Raisi expressed concern over presence of Daesh in Kabul post US withdrawal. He said the Afghan leadership must ensure that Afghanistan’s territory will not be used to instigate terrorism in any other country.
Moreover, the President expressed hoped for the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan that will include all people irrespective of caste, creed, or gender.
Additionally, President Raisi stated regional countries can play an effective role in peace and development of Afghanistan.
On this occasion, Foreign Minister Qureshi also invited Iran’s President to visit Pakistan.
