Pakistan, Iran agree to strengthen road and rail connectivity

Pakistan and Iran agreed to strengthen road and rail links and reactivate the Pakistan-Iran Joint Transport Committee to address long-standing transport and border-related issues between the two countries, according to an official statement released on Thursday.

The understanding was reached during a meeting between Iran’s Roads and Urban Development Minister Farzaneh Sadegh and Communications Minister Aleem Khan, who is leading efforts to expand transport links and trade cooperation with neighboring countries.

Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Shipping Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry were also part of the Pakistani delegation.

During the meeting, the Communications Minister expressed satisfaction over the restoration of peace in the region and said that stronger road and rail links between Pakistan and Iran would create new trade opportunities and further deepen bilateral relations.

The Iranian minister also raised questions related to the clearance of trucks and containers moving between the two countries. Officials from both sides agreed to pursue joint measures to resolve pending cases at the Pakistan-Iran border and facilitate smoother movement of goods and transport vehicles.

“The two sides discussed a number of proposals aimed at improving transport links and agreed to work towards resolving outstanding issues affecting cross-border transport,” the statement said.

Sadegh thanked Pakistan for its role in promoting peace and supporting efforts that led to a ceasefire and peace agreement in the region. “We appreciate the support and cooperation of our Pakistani brothers,” she said.

Read: Pakistan to continue efforts for lasting regional peace, assures Naqvi Momeni

A day earlier, Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, in a meeting with his Pakistani counterpart Mohsin Naqvi, also agreed to strengthen cooperation in several areas, including security, counter-terrorism, cyber security and immigration.

Earlier this week, Iranian President Pezeshkian arrived in Islamabad along with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Eskandar Momeni. During the visit, the Iranian delegation held talks with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir.