The Pak International Business Forum (PIBF) has formally submitted a letter to the Ambassador of Iran in Pakistan, outlining a comprehensive six-point agenda designed to significantly enhance bilateral trade, investment, energy cooperation, and economic integration between the two neighboring countries.
Historical Ties Yet Untapped Potential
In the letter, PIBF President Dr. Mushtaq Mangat and Secretary General Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer emphasized that Pakistan and Iran enjoy longstanding historical, cultural, religious, and geographical ties, yet bilateral trade remains far below its true potential. They urged both governments to take practical and strategic steps to unlock new opportunities for economic cooperation and regional connectivity.
Priority on Gas Pipeline Project
The PIBF leadership proposed that the commencement and completion of the Pakistan–Iran Gas Pipeline Project should be treated as a priority initiative. According to the forum, this project would help address Pakistan’s energy requirements while promoting long-term economic collaboration between the two countries.
Revival of ITI Cargo Train Service
The letter also called for the restoration and expansion of the Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul (ITI) Cargo Train Service. Dr. Mushtaq Mangat and Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer noted that enhanced rail connectivity would facilitate trade, reduce transportation costs, and strengthen links between South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Formal Agreement for Iranian Petroleum Imports
The PIBF leaders further urged the conclusion of a formal agreement for the purchase and import of Iranian petroleum products. They stated that such cooperation could provide Pakistan with a reliable and cost-effective source of energy while contributing to greater regional economic integration.
Structured Business Cooperation Mechanisms
The forum also proposed the establishment of structured business cooperation mechanisms and formal agreements between the Pakistani and Iranian business communities. Suggestions included regular business forums, trade delegations, B2B meetings, and institutional linkages to promote investment and commercial partnerships.
Joint Border Markets and Gwadar Industrial Zone
In addition, the letter recommended the establishment of joint border markets along the Pakistan–Iran border to facilitate legal trade, create employment opportunities, support local communities, and curb informal trade activities. The forum further proposed the creation of a modern Pakistan–Iran Joint One-Window Industrial Zone in Gwadar, offering streamlined procedures and modern infrastructure to attract investment in manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, and export-oriented industries.
Hope for Serious Consideration
Dr. Mushtaq Mangat and Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer expressed the hope that these proposals would receive serious consideration and serve as the foundation for a new phase of economic cooperation between Pakistan and Iran. They emphasized that stronger commercial ties would benefit both countries and contribute to regional prosperity, connectivity, and sustainable growth.
