Pakistan and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting regional stability during high-level talks between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Islamabad on Tuesday.
A delegation-level meeting was held at the Prime Minister House, attended by senior Pakistani leadership, including Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar. The discussions focused on bilateral cooperation, regional peace and ongoing diplomatic initiatives.
Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed President Pezeshkian’s visit, describing it as an important step towards further deepening ties between the neighbouring countries. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability and peaceful dialogue.
The prime minister said certain forces were attempting to undermine recent peace efforts in the region and stressed that there should be no double standards regarding ballistic missile capabilities. He clarified that Iran’s missile programme was never discussed during negotiations and was not included in the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Shehbaz Sharif stated that the Iranian leadership had not agreed to place its missile programme on the negotiating table, adding that the Islamabad MoU represented a significant diplomatic achievement. “We have gathered here today for a bright future,” he said, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to promoting peace, stability and prosperity across the region.
The prime minister also praised Field Marshal Asim Munir for his role in facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States. He acknowledged the contributions of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi towards the successful signing of the Islamabad MoU.
Expressing sorrow over the loss of lives in Iran during recent tensions, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan had consistently supported efforts aimed at preventing conflict and encouraging diplomatic engagement.
President Masoud Pezeshkian described Pakistan and Iran as “one soul and two bodies”, calling the two countries brothers and strategic partners with a shared future. He said Pakistan was not only a neighbouring state but also a close friend whose role in regional diplomacy had earned widespread respect.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Pakistan and Iran are “one soul and two bodies,” describing the two countries as brothers and strategic partners with a shared future.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, President Pezeshkian said that Pakistan is not only a neighbouring country but also a brother and close friend of Iran. He added that Pakistan and Iran are partners in a common future and destination, and recent developments reflect the depth of relations between the two countries.
The Iranian president praised Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, stating that Pakistan played an “excellent role” in the negotiation process and acknowledged its contribution to peace, progress and prosperity in the region.
He said the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding was made possible due to mutual trust in Pakistan, adding that the agreement marks an important milestone in strengthening bilateral cooperation.
President Pezeshkian said he held constructive meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, during which they discussed bilateral relations and the regional situation.
Expressing gratitude, the Iranian president thanked the Pakistani government and people for what he described as a warm welcome and generous hospitality during his visit.
The reception ceremony in honour of President Masoud Pezeshkian was held at the Prime Minister House, where both leaders introduced their respective delegations. Later, the two leaders planted a sapling on the premises of the Prime Minister’s House and offered prayers, symbolising friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and Iran.
Aerial welcome for Iranian president upon arrival in Pakistan
Earlier, the Iranian president received a ceremonial aerial welcome upon his arrival in Pakistan. According to details, Pakistan Air Force fighter jets escorted and saluted the presidential aircraft in Pakistani airspace.
A formation comprising six aircraft, including JF-17 Thunder and F-16 jets, participated in the aerial escort. The formation leader conveyed good wishes on behalf of the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the people of the country.
Officials said the visit of President Masoud Pezeshkian reflects the strong brotherly relations between Pakistan and Iran and is a reaffirmation of both countries’ commitment to enhancing defence cooperation and bilateral ties.
They added that the use of JF-17 and F-16 aircraft symbolised the modern capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force and continued the country’s tradition of honouring visiting dignitaries with ceremonial respect.
The aerial salute was described as a gesture promoting peace, friendship, and cooperation in the region, highlighting Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations with friendly countries.
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