Zarif, Pakistani PM discuss bilateral ties, regional developments

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who is on a one-day visit to Pakistan, met Pakistani Prime Minister Mohammad Nawaz Sharif in Islamabad and discussed mutual cooperation and regional developments.

The Iranian foreign minister and Pakistani prime minister underlined the need for consolidation of all-out ties between Tehran and Islamabad to further broaden mutual cooperation, especially in the post-nuclear deal era between Iran and six world powers.

Speaking to reporters upon his arrival at Benazir Bhutto International Airport on Thursday morning, Zarif described Iran’s ties with Pakistan – a friendly and neighboring country – as very important, and said that during his visit to Islamabad he will discuss problems and issues that the region is having with Pakistani friends.

He said that one of the most important objectives of his visit to Pakistan is to exchange views on different subjects, especially economic cooperation.

“We are trying to remove the problems that have been created for both countries due to the Western-imposed sanctions,” Zarif said.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran deems as highly important its relations with the neighboring countries and Pakistan is a friend, neighbor and very close to Iran; we have very solid relations with that country in different fields, especially in the cultural area,” Zarif added.

The Iranian foreign minister, meantime, pointed to regional problems, and said, “In view of the fact that some regional countries, including Yemen, Afghanistan and some other regional states are facing different problems, I will consult with the Pakistani allies in this regard as we hope that these consultations will be in the interest of both countries, regional peace and security”.

Zarif will meet his Pakistani counterpart Sartaj Aziz, Pakistani Parliament Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadeq and Pakistani Senate Speaker Raza Rabbani during his one-day visit to Islamabad.

Zarif and Sartaj Aziz will also attend a joint press conference in Islamabad.

The Iranian foreign minister will meet senior Pakistani officials during his one-day visit to Pakistan.