A PM House statement said Prime Minister Imran Khan had a bilateral meeting with President of Iran Ayatollah Seyed Ebrahim Raisi on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Dushanbe on Thursday.
The two leaders exchanged views on bilateral relations, and regional and international issues of mutual interest.
The Prime Minister conveyed heartfelt felicitations to President Raisi on his victory in the recent Presidential elections. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to continue working with Iran to further strengthen and expand brotherly ties between the two countries.
The wide-ranging talks covered the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, with a special focus on trade and economic sphere and regional connectivity. The Prime Minister highlighted his economic security agenda and Pakistan’s shift from geo-politics to geo-economics.
On the situation in Afghanistan, the Prime Minister underscored Pakistan’s vital interest in a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan.
The Prime Minister stressed that there was an opportunity to finally end the conflict and war in Afghanistan after 40 years. It was essential to take urgent steps to stabilize the security situation in Afghanistan, prevent humanitarian crisis and stabilize the economy.
The Prime Minister added that the efforts for stabilization would be reinforced by respect for the rights of all segments of Afghan society and an inclusive political structure.
He appreciated Iran’s support for Pakistan’s initiative on engagement with Afghanistan’s neighboring countries for a coordinated approach.
PM Imran also stressed the importance of the international community’s engagement with Afghanistan through positive messaging and constructive practical steps.
The Prime Minister reiterated his cordial invitation to President Raisi to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience. For his part, President Raisi invited Prime Minister Imran Khan to visit Iran.
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