Key Takeaways
- Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Amiri Moghadam reaffirms commitment to negotiations and peaceful resolution of disputes.
- Ambassador highlights potential for expanded trade and connectivity between Pakistan and Iran.
- Discusses ongoing regional conflicts and calls for sustained diplomatic engagement.
Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Amiri Moghadam has reaffirmed his country's commitment to negotiations and a peaceful resolution of disputes, while also emphasizing the need to respond to security challenges when necessary. This statement was made during a roundtable discussion at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI).
Dr Moghadam appreciated the solidarity extended by the Pakistani government and people during recent hostilities between the United States and Iran, and acknowledged the diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir, and other senior Pakistani leaders to reduce tensions and facilitate dialogue.
The ambassador stressed the importance of credible commitments and effective implementation in future diplomatic processes, particularly referring to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. He highlighted the vast potential for expanding bilateral trade, connectivity, and regional economic cooperation between Pakistan and Iran.
Dr Moghadam identified road, rail, and maritime connectivity as key pillars of economic cooperation, calling for the expansion of border crossings and the upgrading of infrastructure along the Pakistan-Iran border. He cited the potential connectivity between Karachi, Gwadar, and Bandar Abbas as a significant opportunity to facilitate trade and transit between the two countries and the wider region.
On the issue of regional conflicts, the Iranian envoy expressed concern over ongoing tensions in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza, warning that prolonged confrontation was contributing to greater instability across the region. He called for sustained diplomatic engagement to reduce tensions and promote peaceful solutions to regional conflicts.
The roundtable discussion, hosted by ISSI’s Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA), was attended by diplomats, politicians, military officials, academics, and security analysts. The event was moderated by DG ISSI Moinul Haque.
Dr Moghadam emphasized the importance of stronger and sustained engagement between Pakistan and Iran not only for bilateral economic development but also for promoting peace, stability, and connectivity across the region.
Iran remains committed to negotiations and a peaceful and sustainable resolution of disputes but is also prepared to respond to security challenges when necessary.
Dr Amiri Moghadam, Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan
