ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Sardar Ayaz Sadiq hosted a luncheon for the Iranian delegation headed by Rostam Ghasemi, Minister for Roads and Urban Development to discuss matters of mutual interests here in Islamabad on Wednesday.

During the meeting, the Minister for Economic Affairs reiterated that Pakistan attributes high importance to the relations with its neighbor, Iran and is desirous of further boosting these relations in all field of mutual interests.

He said Pakistan and Iran are not only neighbors but brothers and further stressed that Pakistan has always given priority to Iran and the Government of Pakistan is looking forward to enhance this relationship that would be mutually beneficial for both sides.

The Iranian Minister also expressed gratitude and honor for hosting his delegation to discuss areas of collaboration and enhancing cooperation. He stressed that both nations should work to boost development through cooperation in sectors including; Energy, Agriculture, Industry and Trade Exchange.

He said: “Iran does not have any limitation of cooperation in any field.” The Iranian Minister further highlighted the challenges that his country has been facing due to International embargoes and sanctions and its impact on Iranian Economy.

He mentioned that this has also become a great hurdle in further enhancement of Pak-Iran Relations. Minister for Economic Affairs acknowledged the development sectors mentioned by his counterpart and highlighted that Religious Tourism should also be considered an important area that has remained unexploited.

He suggested that Iran should not be waiting for lifting of sanctions rather it should strive to find alternative ways to enhance its relations with other nations. On his concluding remarks, the Minister for Economic Affairs mentioned that instead of looking into overall development, both countries should adopt a thorough policy and identify few but most important areas of cooperation that can provide maximum benefits to both sides, which was appreciated by his counterpart.

The Iranian Minister on his concluding remarks expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Economic Affairs for arranging this Luncheon and assured full assistance from Iranian side for the enhancement of bilateral relations. He invited the Minister for Economic Affairs to visit Iran to discuss further development projects. The meeting was ended with a vote of thanks from both sides and a great banquet.