Pakistan and Iran have agreed to strengthen road and rail connectivity and reactivate the Pakistan-Iran Joint Transport Committee to address longstanding transport and border-related issues, according to an official statement released on Thursday.
Meeting Between Transport Ministers
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadegh and Pakistan's Minister for Communications Aleem Khan, who is leading efforts to expand transport links and trade cooperation with neighbouring countries. Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, and Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry were also part of the Pakistani delegation.
Focus on Regional Peace and Trade Opportunities
During the meeting, the communications minister expressed satisfaction over the restoration of peace in the region and said stronger road and rail links between Pakistan and Iran would create new trade opportunities and further deepen bilateral relations. The Iranian minister raised issues relating to the clearance of trucks and containers moving between the two countries.
Joint Measures for Border Facilitation
Officials from both sides agreed to pursue joint measures to address pending matters at the Pakistan-Iran border and facilitate smoother movement of goods and transport vehicles. "The two sides discussed a range of proposals aimed at improving transport connectivity and agreed to work towards resolving outstanding issues affecting cross-border transport," said the statement.
Appreciation for Pakistan's Role
Sadegh thanked Pakistan for its role in promoting peace and supporting efforts that led to a ceasefire and peace agreement in the region. "We value the support and cooperation extended by our Pakistani brothers," she said.
Broader Bilateral Cooperation
A day earlier, Iran's Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, in a meeting with his Pakistani counterpart Mohsin Naqvi, also agreed to enhance cooperation in several areas, including security, counterterrorism, cybersecurity and immigration. Earlier in the week, Iranian President Pezeshkian arrived in Islamabad alongside Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Eskandar Momeni. During the visit, the Iranian delegation held talks with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir.
