Iran, Pakistan have mutually agreed to boost bilateral co-operation on regional security and trade. Decision in this regard was taken by the Iranian President Hassan Rouhani & Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif during intensive talks in Islamabad. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is on official state visit to Pakistan and is the 1st visit by an Iranian head of state in 14 years.
Key facts:
Both countries have agreed to fight extremist and terrorist groups in their countries’ shared border. They also announced the opening of 2 new crossing points to encourage trade long hampered by sanctions. The opening will contribute to economic integration in the region and also promote tourism & people to people contacts. Iran discussed issues related to energy and export of gas or electricity to Pakistan as well as establishing connectivity between Pakistan’s Gawadar & Iran’s Chabahar seaports. Geopolitical scenario Pakistan predominantly being a Sunni Muslim nation had traditionally close economic political ties with the Saudi Arabia (Sunni Muslim nation). However in recent times, it is trying to maintain a delicate balance promoting ties with Iran as the West Asia region is indulged in sectarian rift especially between Iran (Shia Muslim nation) and Saudi Arabia Earlier Pakistan (having the largest and only nuclear armed army in the Muslim world) had refused a Saudi Arabia to join its anti-Houthi military coalition (in Yemen) as it would be against Iran. The move had angered Saudi Arabia as Pakistan had vowed to stand ready to defend any (including sectarian) aggression against Saudi Arabia.
Iran, Pakistan agree to boost cooperation on security, trade
