Pakistan and Iran have pledged a united front against terrorism and to maintain tranquility along their shared border, potentially unlocking new avenues for regional advancement. This commitment was declared during a meeting between Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian in Islamabad on Sunday.

The leaders deliberated on the full spectrum of bilateral ties, aiming to boost mutual trade to $10 billion. They also vehemently denounced the ongoing Israeli actions in Gaza, demanding an immediate halt to the violence and advocating for greater collaboration among Muslim nations.

Prime Minister Sharif criticized recent Israeli operations against Iran, echoing the sentiments of the Pakistani populace. He reiterated Pakistan”s support for Iran”s right to peaceful nuclear technology under the UN Charter. Both leaders agreed on a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, whether within Pakistan or Iran.

Addressing the Gaza crisis, Sharif called for international unity in demanding a ceasefire. He commended Iran”s backing of the Palestinians and reaffirmed Pakistan”s solidarity with them. He compared the plight of Palestinians to that of those in Indian-administered Kashmir, advocating for their right to self-determination and thanking Iran for its support.

President Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for Pakistan”s support during the recent Israeli actions. He conveyed a message of unity, reciting poetry by Allama Iqbal. He emphasized the brotherly bond between the two nations and highlighted their collaborative efforts to enhance mutual ties, citing recent agreements as evidence. He also extended an invitation to Prime Minister Sharif to visit Iran for further discussions.