Pakistan, Iran agree to strengthen road, rail connectivity

Pakistan and Iran have agreed to strengthen road and rail connectivity and reactivate the Pakistan-Iran Joint Transport Committee to resolve long-standing transport and border issues between the two countries, according to an official statement issued on Thursday.

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

Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Maritime Affairs 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 strengthening road and rail links between Pakistan and Iran would create new trade opportunities and further deepen bilateral relations.

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

“The two sides discussed a series of proposals aimed at improving transport connectivity 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 provided by our Pakistani brothers,” she said.

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

The day before, Iranian 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, cybersecurity and immigration.

Earlier in the week, Iranian President Pezeshkian arrived in Islamabad alongside 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 Force Marshal Asim Munir.