Lahore: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrived at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore on Saturday for a two-day official visit to strengthen bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran. This visit marks Pezeshkian’s first official trip to Pakistan since taking office as president.
Upon arrival, the Iranian leader was warmly welcomed by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and PML-N President Nawaz Sharif, who were present at the airport along with other senior officials.
Pezeshkian is accompanied by a high-ranking delegation, including senior ministers and key officials from Iran.
In his pre-departure statement to reporters in Tehran, Pezeshkian emphasized that the primary goal of this visit was to enhance trade and economic cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
He expressed his ambition to increase bilateral trade to $10 billion. The Iranian president also highlighted the importance of improving cross-border markets and regional connectivity, noting that such initiatives could unlock new avenues for mutual cooperation.
Pezeshkian also underscored the importance of discussing issues related to border security and regional peace during his visit.
He pointed out that, through improved cross-border trade routes, both nations could strengthen their ties, fostering more economic opportunities for their citizens.
Additionally, the Iranian president expressed interest in actively participating in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
He emphasized that CPEC would provide Iran with better connectivity to Europe, further promoting regional integration and economic growth.
During his visit, President Pezeshkian is set to meet with President Asif Ali Zardari and hold high-level talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who had previously visited Iran in May 2025 and invited Pezeshkian to visit Pakistan.
These discussions are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including economic cooperation, border security, and cultural exchange.
According to Mehdi Sanai, the Political Adviser to the Iranian President, the visit will also include meetings with cultural and business leaders.
Sanai mentioned that the relations between Iran and Pakistan span political, economic, religious, and cultural dimensions, which will be explored during these official talks.
The visit is aimed at increasing the bilateral trade volume, which currently stands at $3 billion, as well as improving cooperation in provincial and border regions.
This visit is significant, marking the second Iranian president’s visit to Pakistan within two years.
