Pakistan today reaffirmed its commitment to resolving logistical hurdles and bureaucratic red tape at its border with Iran to facilitate smoother trade, a move that comes as Tehran plans to import large quantities of meat and potentially 200,000 tonnes of maize, with both nations aiming for a bilateral trade volume of Rs. 10 billion.
The pledge was made by Minister for Communications, Mr. Abdul Aleem Khan, during a meeting with the Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan, Mr. Reza Amiri Moghadam. The minister conveyed his optimism about reaching the ambitious trade target and assured that all necessary measures would be taken to address issues concerning the entry and exit of Iranian trade trucks at border points.
To expedite progress, Mr. Khan stated that steps would be coordinated with the National Logistics Cell (NLC). He also announced that a meeting would be arranged between the Secretary of Communications and officials from the Iranian Embassy. The minister acknowledged that while bureaucratic procedures can cause delays, consistent follow-up and perseverance are effective in overcoming such challenges.
Mr. Abdul Aleem Khan reiterated his support for the shared vision of Iranian President Mr. Masoud Pezeshkian and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif to enhance connectivity and economic exchange between the two countries. “The love and goodwill between Pakistan and Iran have increased manifold over the past six months,” he added.
In response, Ambassador Moghadam expressed his gratitude for the successful organization of the recent Regional Transport Ministers Conference (RTMC), which he credited with providing valuable opportunities for regional cooperation. He highlighted the visit of Iran’s Minister for Transport and Urban Development, Ms. Farzaneh Sadegh, as highly significant for bilateral dialogue.
The ambassador commended Minister Khan”s efforts in uniting regional stakeholders to discuss trade-related issues, noting they have played a key role in strengthening Pakistan-Iran collaboration. He remarked that relations between the two nations are now at their highest point in the last 40 years.
Ambassador Moghadam confirmed that Iran is exploring the possibility of purchasing 200,000 tonnes of Pakistani maize (corn) as a viable trade option, in addition to plans to import large amounts of meat. He revealed that a series of high-level visits and follow-up meetings are scheduled in the coming weeks to achieve shared targets.
The Commercial Councilor of Iran to Pakistan, Mr. Mohsin Shahbazi, was also present during the discussions.