Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi calls on President Asif Zardari

Foreign Minister of Iran Seyyed Abbas Araghchi met President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Monday to discuss matters of mutual interest, bilateral cooperation, and the regional security situation, with a particular focus on the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam incident.

Welcoming the Iranian foreign minister, President Zardari highlighted the longstanding, brotherly ties between Pakistan and Iran. He emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation between the two nations to foster peace, stability, and prosperity across the region.

Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that his visit was undertaken under the directive of the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. He expressed Iran’s understanding of Pakistan’s position amid the current tensions and urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint in order to avoid further escalation.

Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Pakistan, emphasizing the desire to enhance cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries. He particularly stressed the need to boost bilateral trade to its full potential. The Iranian foreign minister also addressed the evolving situation in Afghanistan, expressing Iran’s readiness to work in close coordination with Pakistan on all regional issues.

President Zardari expressed gratitude to the Iranian foreign minister for visiting Pakistan during this critical time. Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue and diplomacy, he voiced serious concern over India's aggressive stance, warning that it posed a threat to regional peace and stability. He also echoed the importance of expanding economic cooperation and trade ties with Iran.

During the meeting, the two sides also discussed the situation in Gaza. Both leaders strongly condemned the ongoing human rights violations and atrocities committed by Israeli forces in Gaza and the West Bank.

Concluding the meeting, Foreign Minister Araghchi conveyed the best wishes of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to President Zardari.