The Iranian presidential office stated on Monday that the Islamic Republic of Iran is keen on bolstering relations with Pakistan through its neighbourhood policy. It said that during this visit, discussions will encompass a range of topics such as economic and commercial matters, energy, and border issues with the Government of Pakistan.
Agenda of Visit
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi begins a three-day visit to Pakistan to engage in discussions concerning regional and bilateral relations. This visit follows recent exchanges of attacks between Iran and Israel.
On Sunday, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement advocating for the enhancement of bilateral relations.
"The two nations will address a comprehensive agenda aimed at bolstering Pakistan-Iran relations and fostering cooperation across various sectors such as trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people exchanges," the statement highlighted.
It was further noted that the Iranian president's itinerary includes visits to major cities like Lahore and Karachi, with a focus on strengthening bilateral and trade relations.
What is the Untold Real Purpose?
Iran's President, Ebrahim Raisi, is visiting Pakistan when things are tense between Iran and Israel. Israel bombed Iran's Isfahan province after there were explosions reported there. This came after Iran attacked Israel with drones and missiles last weekend. These military actions happened after Israel allegedly attacked an Iranian diplomatic office in Damascus. The escalation of events is happening and the world is worried!
Raisi is visiting Islamabad to make the bond between Iran and Pakistan stronger, especially during the troubles in the Middle East. He and Shareef will also chat about what's going on in the region and the world.
" data-image-caption="
Pakistan PM Shahbaz Sharif (L) and Iran President Ebrahim Raisi
" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/fortaze.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Untitled-YouTube-Thumbnail.jpg?fit=1024%2C576&ssl=1" class="size-medium wp-image-2505" src="https://fortaze.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Untitled-YouTube-Thumbnail-300x169.jpg" alt="Pakistan PM Shahbaz Sharif (L) and Iran President Ebrahim Raisi" width="300" height="169" /> Pakistan PM Shahbaz Sharif (L) and Iran President Ebrahim Raisi (R)
Pipeline Raises Hopes of Economic Revival in Pakistan
Iranian president wanted Iran and Pakistan to trade goods worth $10 billion, pointing out that their economic connection doesn't match how closely they work together politically. Last August, the 2 countries aimed for $5 billion in trade.
There's a plan to build a pipeline to bring Iranian natural gas to Pakistan, but it's been stopped because of the United States sanctions. Now, Iran's President is in no mood to relent after USA intervention in the Israel- -Iran conflict, and might even ignore sanctions and go ahead with building a pipeline.
The Concerns
Iran's partnership with Pakistan, despite recent missile strikes, exchanged between them in January, appears strategic. While the world is divided between supporting Israel or Iran in their conflict, Iran's trip has now aligned Pakistan with its side.
What started as a smaller conflict between two countries is now expanding into a broader regional conflict involving multiple nations. Let's hope it doesn't escalate further, and countries like India can assist in de-escalating tensions.