Pakistan is looking forward to exploring the true potential of bilateral cooperation with Iran: Sardar Ayaz Sadiq
ISLAMABAD, April 18 (SABAH): The Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, held a farewell meeting for the outgoing Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Pakistan, Syed Mohammad Ali Hosseni at the Ministry of Economic Affairs on Tuesday.
During the meeting, the Minister expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Hosseini for his dedicated service to strengthening the economic ties between Pakistan and Iran. He noted that under the Ambassador’s leadership, the bilateral trade between the two countries had increased significantly, and several joint projects had been initiated in various sectors, including energy, agriculture, and infrastructure.
The Minister also praised the Ambassador for his proactive and focused role in facilitating the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project, which is a significant milestone in the economic cooperation between the two countries. “Pakistan values reciprocal and congenial relations with its very important neighbouring country – Iran. Pakistan is looking forward to exploring the true potential of bilateral cooperation with Iran,” said Minister Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.
Ambassador Hosseini expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality and support he had received during his tenure in Pakistan. He reiterated Iran’s commitment to further enhancing the economic relations between the two countries and expressed confidence that his successor would continue the positive momentum. “Despite facing pressure, we have strong resolve in all areas,” said Ambassador Hosseini. He apprised the Minister that for the first time in the history of Pak-Iran economic relations, the volume of bilateral trade exceeded $2 billion. The Ambassador further appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of Economic Affairs for successfully conducting the 21st Session of Pakistan-Iran Joint Economic Commission (JEC). He highlighted that the bilateral negotiations between Pakistan and Iran, on transportation, customs and commerce, are reaching to conclusion in near future The Iran is inaugurating numerous projects including electricity transmission project, trial run border market and other project that are to be completed in near future. “Currently, Iran is exporting 144MW of electricity to Pakistan, and this figure is expected to double upon the completion of power projects in Pakistan. Iran has the potential to export 500MW of electricity to Pakistan.” said the Ambassador.
The Minister and the Ambassador agreed to maintain close contact to ensure the continued progress of the economic cooperation between the two brotherly countries. The Ministry of Economic Affairs wishes Ambassador Hosseini all the best for his future endeavours and looks forward to working closely with his successor to further strengthen the economic ties between Pakistan and Iran.