Iranian President Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi has commenced a significant diplomatic journey, arriving in Islamabad today for a three-day official visit to Pakistan.
This marks the inaugural visit of any foreign leader to Pakistan following the February 8 polls, drawing close scrutiny from the United States amid ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel. Nevertheless, sources said that the visit is unrelated to the current hostility.
During his stay, President Raisi is scheduled to engage with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chairman Senate Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir.
Additionally, he plans to explore Lahore and Karachi, engaging with provincial leadership.
Accompanying President Raisi are his spouse and a distinguished delegation, including the foreign minister, cabinet members, senior officials, and a substantial business contingent, as confirmed by Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch.
The agenda for discussions between the two nations encompasses a wide array of topics aimed at bolstering Pakistan-Iran relations and fostering cooperation across various sectors such as trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people exchanges.
Both sides will also delve into regional and global developments, alongside bilateral efforts to combat terrorism.
Upon his arrival at Islamabad airport, President Raisi received a warm welcome from Federal Minister for Housing and Works Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Mudassir Tipu.
Prime Minister Shehbaz will engage in comprehensive talks with President Raisi at the PM Office, followed by the signing of numerous Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the two nations. The Prime Minister will further host a luncheon in honor of the esteemed visitor.
President Zardari is slated to convene with his Iranian counterpart at Aiwan-e-Sadr and extend a dinner invitation in his honor.
In the subsequent phase of his visit, President Raisi will journey to Lahore to meet with Governor Balighur Rehman and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, alongside paying respects at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal.
The Iranian leader will then proceed to Karachi, where meetings are scheduled with Governor Kamran Tessori and Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, along with a visit to Quaid’s mausoleum to honor the founder of Pakistan.
Given the significance of the visit, provincial authorities have heightened security measures, declaring a public holiday in Karachi on April 23.
President Raisi’s visit underscores the mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and fostering regional cooperation, ultimately contributing to peace and stability in the region.
