Pakistan’s commitment to deepen its ties with Iran and expand mutually beneficial collaboration in all areas of shared interest has been reiterated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

He was speaking with Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian Foreign Minister, who was in Islamabad today [Tuesday].

He greeted Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on his first official visit to Pakistan as Iran’s foreign minister, emphasising the value of continuing frequent high-level engagement in fostering bilateral ties.

The Prime Minister also sent his warmest condolences and best wishes to President Massoud Pezeshkian and Ayatollah Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader.

The concerning state of affairs in the Middle East was discussed throughout the conference.

The Prime Minister voiced serious worry over Israel’s ongoing genocidal campaign against the Palestinian people while restating Pakistan’s unwavering support for them in their just fight for statehood and self-determination.

Shehbaz Sharif also underlined the necessity of an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the provision of unimpeded humanitarian aid, and—above all—the recognition of the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination, which is protected by pertinent UN and OIC resolutions.

Along with expressing support for Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the prime minister also strongly condemned Israel’s attack on Iran on the 26th of last month.

The Iranian Foreign Minister briefed the Prime Minister on Iran’s viewpoint and thanked him for Pakistan’s solid stance.