Islamabad (TDI): Iran and Pakistan have taken major steps to strengthen bilateral ties by signing 12 memoranda of understanding (MOUs) during Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s official visit to Islamabad.
With a strong focus on regional security and economic growth, the agreements show both countries’ determination for regional cooperation. Raising bilateral trade from $3 billion to $10 billion annually was one of the primary goals.
Simplifying customs, modernizing trade infrastructure, and reducing non-tariff barriers were among the key steps both sides pledged to take. To strengthen economic cooperation, they announced plans to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Among the agreements, both sides agreed to work on agriculture and food security issues, such as collaboration on pest control, quarantine protocols, and modern farming practices that could benefit farmers in both countries.
Industrial development, scientific research, and tech cooperation were also prioritized. The two sides discussed opportunities to collaborate on research projects and promote innovation through partnerships between institutions.
Transportation and transit issues were also discussed, and both countries agreed to improve infrastructure and manage key borders such as Mirjaveh-Taftan.
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MoUs in cultural heritage, art exchange, and tourism promotion for 2025–2027 were also signed. There were also agreements in information and communications technology (ICT) to promote digital cooperation and infrastructure development.Â
Environmental collaboration was institutionalized under MoUs in meteorology and climate risk management to facilitate collaborative weather forecasting and disaster relief. Maritime safety and firefighting cooperation are intended to improve coastal security and emergency readiness.
The two sides also agreed to the mutual recognition of product certification and inspection standards to facilitate freer trade and guarantee product quality. They also upgraded the 2013 Air Services MoU to enhance air connectivity and people-to-people exchange, and business travel.
The visit of President Pezeshkian is the highest-level state interaction between the two nations since recent regional tensions and demonstrates a firm diplomatic reboot. Possible regular follow-up meetings between the two leaders were agreed upon to oversee the execution of the agreements.
Pakistan and Iran share a 900-kilometer border and a deep history of cultural and religious ties. Although their relationships have seen their ups and downs in recent years, the recent diplomatic efforts and new agreements mark a new era of trust-building, economic cooperation, and regional stability.
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