Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday on the sidelines of the 17th Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Summit held in Khankendi, Azerbaijan.
During the meeting, the two leaders reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation across all sectors and expressed satisfaction over the progress made on decisions taken during their previous meeting aimed at further strengthening Pakistan-Iran relations.
The two leaders also discussed the evolving regional situation in light of Israel’s unjustified aggression against Iran. PM Shehbaz appreciated President Pezeshkian’s leadership and commended Iran’s decision to exercise restraint and pursue a ceasefire during the recent crisis.
Reiterating Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with the people and government of Iran, the premier reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm commitment to working together with Iran through dialogue and diplomacy for peace in the region.
Read: PM to attend 17th ECO summit in Baku
President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan’s strong diplomatic support for Iran at international forums during the recent crisis and thanked Pakistan for its key role in de-escalation efforts.
PM Shehbaz also conveyed a message of congratulations and best wishes for Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
17th ECO Summit
PM Shehbaz reached Azerbaijan on Thursday for a two-day official visit to participate in the 17th Summit of the ECO.
The summit, was held in Khankendi from July 3 to 4, under the theme “New ECO Vision for a Sustainable and Climate Resilient Future”, bringing together heads of state and government from member countries to discuss pressing regional issues, including connectivity, trade and climate change.
The premier was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi.
Upon his arrival at Fuzuli International Airport, the prime minister was received by Azerbaijan’s Minister of Culture Adil Karimli, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan Qasim Moinuddin and other senior diplomatic and government officials.
The Foreign Office had stated that the prime minister would address the summit outlining Pakistan’s perspective on key regional and global issues. He was expected to reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to the ECO Vision 2025 and advocate for deeper intra-regional trade, enhanced transport connectivity, greater energy cooperation and sustainable development.
