Tazeen Akhtar
Finance Minister of Pakistan, Senator Mohammad Aurangzeb has said that Pakistan and Iran had relations deep in the centuries and not decades only. Both countries are committed for shared peace, progress and prosperity.Minister said this in his speech as chief guest at the reception hosted by H.E Reza Amiri Moghaddam, Ambassador of Iran on 46th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution.
The reception was hosted at Serena Hotels Islamabad that was attended by a large number of guests from all walks of life including high officials from gov and military, foreign service and foreign community of Islamabad.
Federal Minister Planning and Special Initiatives , Ahsan Iqbal, Chief Minister Gilgit Baltistan Gulber Khan, Former Minister and Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, Secretary General Motmar Alam e Islami Raja Zafar ul Haqq, Former Chairman Senate Nayyar Bukhari, Amir of Tehreek e Jafria Allama Sajid Naqvi, Senator Abdul Ghufoor Haidri of JUI, Allama Raja Nasir Abbas MNA were also present.
Ambassadors of Russia, Belarus, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan,Turkiye, Qatar, Oman, Libya, Uzbekistan, Defense Attaches of China, Russia diplomats of India, Palestine and many other countries also attended the event.
The main hall and its adjacent lawn were decorated with Irani flags and portraits of Imam Khomeini and Supreme Leader Ali Khamnai. Cultural art crafts were also displayed while a documentary was also screened in the backdrop of main stage that was about the revolution.
Young sons and daughters of the staff of the Embassy won the hearts of the guests by singing the national anthems of both brotherly countries.
Finance Minister in his address, extended heartily felicitations to Iran gov and people from gov and people of Pakistan. He spoke highly about Iran Pakistan relations and economic cooperation.
” Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan and it is in our hearts and minds. Our ties are deep rooted and strong on all levels including G2G and P2P. Our bilateral cooperation for mutual economic interests will be further strengthened, Finance Minister concluded.
Ambassador, in his welcome address, said , “It is a great honor to be among you today in the friendly, brotherly, and neighboring country of Pakistan to celebrate the National Day of the Islamic Republic of Iran. I deeply appreciate your presence at this ceremony marking the 46th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution.”
On the revolution, the Ambassador shared, “The Islamic Revolution of Iran stands as one of the most defining events of the 20th century, introducing a new political discourse to the political literature of the world with its core principles of “Independence, Freedom, and the Islamic Republic”. This revolution instilled a spirit of self-reliance, political and cultural sovereignty, and self-sufficiency, shaping Iran’s path forward. Despite numerous challenges, pressures, and sanctions, Iran has made groundbreaking strides in science, technology, medicine, nanotechnology, stem cell research, aerospace, and many other fields.”
“Strengthening relations with neighboring countries remains a fundamental and enduring pillar of Iran’s foreign policy; our brotherly bond with Pakistan holds a special place, consistently emphasized by the Supreme Leader. This shared vision has been instrumental in fostering strong and friendly ties between our nations, Ambassador Moghaddam noted.
“In this context, we have undertaken various initiatives in the economic and political domains, including the opening of border crossings and trade markets, which have significantly contributed to the economic prosperity of both countries and the wider region, H.E Moghaddam continued.
Ambassador briefed the guests about recent engagements between two countries. He said , “Over the past year, multiple high-level delegations have been exchanged, reflecting the dynamism of our bilateral relations. Notable visits include that of the martyred President Ebrahim Raisi, as well as visits by Honorable Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Ishaq Dar to Iran. Additionally, we have witnessed visits from Mr. Araghchi, General Bagheri, and various federal, provincial, technical, and executive delegations, all of which reaffirm our mutual commitment to collaboration.”
H.E Moghaddam was very positive on the promotion of cooperation between the two countries. He said, “Given our geographical proximity, both countries have vast opportunities to fulfill each other’s needs through strategic cooperation. Our economies are complementary rather than competitive; Iran, with the world’s largest oil and gas reserves, and Pakistan, a fertile land rich in agricultural and livestock resources. These unique strengths naturally align our markets and pave the way for deeper economic integration.”
Iran has always supported efforts to enhance transportation networks, including the ITI rail route, and to expand port and infrastructure collaboration. Strengthening economic partnerships and utilizing our shared borders will enable businesses to thrive, fostering prosperity, stability, and sustainable development for the both nations.
The relationship between Iran and Pakistan, rooted in geographical ties, shared interests and mutual respect, continues to advance towards a brighter future. Our collective efforts must be directed towards maximizing our potential, fostering regional development, and improving the livelihoods of our people.
