ext-align: justify;">ISLAMABAD, Oct 11 (APP): Acting President Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Friday called for further strengthening bilateral cooperation with Iran in trade, security, culture and education.
ext-align: justify;">He said that Pakistan and Iran had deep-rooted historical, religious and cultural ties and the people of Pakistan had great respect and affection for the people of Iran.
ext-align: justify;">Gilani expressed these views while talking to the Ambassador of Iran to Pakistan, Dr. Reza Amiri Moghadam, who called on him, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
ext-align: justify;">During the meeting, the acting president underscored that Pakistan and Iran had been active members of many international and regional fora. “There is a need to harness the true potential of the existing cooperation for promoting connectivity between the two countries as well as with the broader region.”
ext-align: justify;">The ambassador noted with satisfaction that Pakistan was the fifth-largest trading partner of Iran last year and stressed the need to explore options for expanding the existing volume of bilateral trade to $10 billion between the two countries.
ext-align: justify;">While discussing the volatile regional situation, the ambassador said “we are witnessing acts of genocide in Lebanon and Gaza”.
ext-align: justify;">He commended the Government of Pakistan for holding the All Parties Conference (APC) on 7th Oct 2024 and added that it could serve as a model for the Islamic World to extend support to our Palestinian brothers and sisters. Gilani reiterated that Pakistan was firmly committed to its support for the Palestinian cause.
ext-align: justify;">The acting president highlighted the significance of enhancing people-to-people contacts including exchanging Parliamentary delegations to further strengthen bonds of friendship between the two brotherly countries.
ext-align: justify;">Towards the end, he thanked the Government of Iran for its warm hospitality in facilitating Pakistani Zaireeen who visit Iranian religious sites every year.
ext-align: justify;">He acknowledged the deep love and affection extended by the people of Iran during the spiritual journey of Pakistani pilgrims.
