Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan and Iran have taken a significant step to enhance bilateral relations by signing five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at bolstering cooperation in broadcasting, film production, media regulation, and cultural exchange.
The agreements were signed on Tuesday between the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) and several leading Pakistani media organizations, including Pakistan Television Corporation (PTV), Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), Box Office (Pvt) Ltd, Sab TV Network, and VSH TV, during a ceremony held in Islamabad.
The MoUs are designed to promote collaborative content creation, foster cultural understanding, and streamline media practices between the two countries, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthen people-to-people ties and mutual cooperation.
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, speaking at the signing ceremony, described the visit of the Iranian media delegation as “productive and inspiring,” highlighting that the MoUs are a reflection of the resolve of both governments to further strengthen their long-standing partnership. He emphasized that Pakistan and Iran are not just neighbors, but also “Muslim brothers,” with a shared vision of peace, solidarity, and resistance against oppression.
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Tarar also recalled his own visits to Iran, describing them as enriching experiences that deepened his appreciation of the close ties between the two nations. He praised the resilience and courage of the Iranian people, particularly in the face of recent attacks, and expressed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Iran during such challenging times.
He also noted the significant role of digital media in uniting nations, referencing Pakistan’s “meme war” during tensions with India, which demonstrated the power of digital platforms in expressing patriotism and solidarity.
In addition to the media cooperation, the MoUs include provisions for academic and cultural exchanges. The agreements also create opportunities for Pakistani students to engage with Iranian universities, fostering greater cultural understanding between the two nations.
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Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Reza Amiri Moghadam expressed gratitude to the Pakistani government, particularly Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, for his interest in fostering stronger media and cultural ties. He emphasized that these agreements will not only strengthen media cooperation but also pave the way for broader public diplomacy and cultural understanding.
Both sides have also discussed the creation of a joint drama series on the life and philosophy of Allama Iqbal, to be produced in both Persian and Urdu. This initiative is seen as a valuable educational tool for younger generations in both countries, helping them to understand Iqbal’s vision and philosophy of knowledge, action, and self-reliance.
