Pak-Iran to transform border from security zone to economic corridor

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, along with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, met with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Pakistan, Dr. Reza Amiri Moghaddam, to review cooperation between Iran and Punjab in agriculture, livestock, and other sectors.

The meeting also focused on trade, cultural, social, and economic ties between Punjab and Iran. The Ambassador informed the Chief Minister that Iran had agreed to increase meat imports from Punjab from 40% to 70%. Additionally, they discussed Punjab's commercial role in the agreement to boost bilateral trade between Pakistan and Iran to $10 billion.

During the meeting, both parties agreed in principle to transform the Pak-Iran border into a hub of economic activity. Various proposals were also considered to promote the Persian language in Punjab, enhancing people-to-people contact between the regions.

Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghaddam extended a written invitation to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to visit Iran. He also invited PML-N President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, who reminisced about his previous visit to Iran. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Muhammad Nawaz Sharif expressed their condolences over the martyrdom of Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi, praising his dedication to the Iranian people.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz described her meeting with the late Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi as memorable and highlighted his impressive personality. She added that their one-on-one discussion had been fruitful in promoting trade and cultural relations.