Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has begun a high-profile visit to Pakistan, emphasizing the need to strengthen economic ties. He aims to expand trade, parliamentary collaboration, and cross-border cooperation between the neighboring nations. Economic ties remain central to the planned discussions with Pakistani officials.
Ghalibaf traveled to Islamabad on Wednesday, leading a delegation of parliament members. He will meet Speaker of the National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq and other parliamentary leaders to discuss trade growth, economic ties, and legislative collaboration.
The speaker will also meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and senior political figures to reinforce bilateral relations. He plans visits to Lahore and Karachi, Pakistan’s key cultural and economic hubs, and will engage with cultural, religious, and business leaders to explore joint opportunities.
Ghalibaf highlighted that this visit follows Pakistan’s strong support for Iran during the recent 12-day conflict imposed by the Israeli regime. He noted that such gestures strengthen both political and economic connections. Several parliament members and members of the Iran-Pakistan parliamentary friendship group accompany him on the trip.
Trade between Iran and Pakistan currently exceeds $3 billion annually. Both countries aim to raise this figure to $10 billion by addressing trade barriers and setting precise goals. Experts stress that improving infrastructure, offering investment incentives, and maintaining consistent policies will drive this growth. Economic ties will benefit multiple sectors, including energy, manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation.
Officials stress that expanding economic ties will create jobs, improve regional stability, and foster long-term cooperation. Pakistani leaders welcomed the initiative and expressed optimism about joint projects and cross-border business growth. Analysts note that deeper collaboration in logistics and financial systems can accelerate trade development.
Looking ahead, Iran and Pakistan plan to continue high-level discussions, implement strategic agreements, and develop trade corridors. They also aim to organize joint business forums and investment summits in the near future. Analysts predict that stronger economic ties will strengthen their partnership and deliver lasting benefits to the region’s political and business landscape.
This visit underscores both countries’ commitment to active diplomacy and practical cooperation. Strengthening economic ties remains a clear priority, with officials on both sides seeking measurable outcomes and sustained growth.