Iranian President Raisi Arrives in Pakistan on Three-Day Official Visit
Iranian President Raisi Arrives in Pakistan in Islamabad on April 22 for a significant three-day official visit to Pakistan. This visit marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between the two nations, coming months after their ties faced a setback due to airstrikes conducted by Tehran against alleged militant hideouts in Balochistan province. President Raisi’s visit is the first by any head of state after Pakistan’s general elections on February 8, highlighting the importance both countries place on bilateral relations.
High-Level Delegation Accompanies President Raisi
President Raisi was warmly welcomed at Islamabad Airport by Housing Minister Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Mudassir Tipu. Accompanying him is a high-level delegation comprising the Foreign Minister and other members of the Cabinet, as well as senior officials. This delegation underscores the significance of the visit and the desire to strengthen ties across various sectors.
Extensive Programme in Pakistan
President Raisi’s itinerary includes meetings with top Pakistani leaders, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza Gilani, and Speaker of the National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq. His visit extends beyond Islamabad, with plans to visit Lahore and Karachi to meet with provincial leadership, further emphasizing the comprehensive nature of his visit.
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Key Meetings and Agreements
During his stay, President Raisi is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with both leaders expected to participate in delegation-level talks. A highlight of their meeting will be the signing ceremony of memorandums of understanding between the two countries, focusing on cooperation across various fields. Additionally, they will plant a sapling at the Prime Minister’s House in honor of Earth Day, highlighting their commitment to environmental conservation.
Ceremonial Events and Press Talks
As part of the visit, a ceremony will be held to name a highway in Islamabad as Iran Avenue, symbolizing the strong ties between the two nations. President Raisi and Prime Minister Shehbaz will also address the media, providing insights into their discussions and the future of Iran-Pakistan relations. The visit will culminate in a lunch hosted by the prime minister for the Iranian president and his delegation, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and cooperation.
President Raisi’s visit comes in the wake of tensions following Iran’s airstrikes in Balochistan province and Pakistan’s subsequent military strikes in Siestan-Balochistan province. However, both nations swiftly engaged in diplomatic dialogue to de-escalate tensions. President Raisi’s visit is expected to further solidify the bond between Iran and Pakistan, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and strengthened relations in the future.
