LAHORE: Iranian President Dr Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi says Pakistan and Iran are keen to develop centers of arts and learning besides promotion of arts and sciences.

Addressing students and faculty at Government College University in Lahore, he said it is need of the hour to pay special attention to arts, sciences and technology to shine among the comity of nations.

President Raisi said that universities should be centers of learning and research and a comprehensive strategy in the education sector may pay dividends.

On Allama Iqbal, the Iranian President said the poetry of Allama Dr Muhammad Iqbal enjoys special acceptance in Iran.

He said Pakistan and Iran maintain the same stance on Palestine issue. Dr Raisi said Iran would further enhance its cooperation with Pakistan in the energy and other sectors.

The Iranian President thanked Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif for the cordial hospitality during his visit.