By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan and Iran have pledged to strengthen bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors and act as an "iron wall" against forces seeking to undermine regional peace, following a historic state visit by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Islamabad 

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif earlier warmly welcomed Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and his delegation to Pakistan, reaffirming Islamabad's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties across multiple sectors, including trade, economic development, infrastructure, reconstruction, and promoting peace and stability in the region.

During his opening remarks at the delegation-level talks, the Prime Minister expressed great pleasure in receiving the Iranian President in Islamabad and thanked him for accepting his invitation to visit Pakistan. "I have no doubt that the brave and resilient people of Iran, with their immense capabilities and natural resources, will transform their country into a flourishing economy," he said, adding that Pakistan and Iran would continue joint efforts to achieve shared prosperity.

The prime minister thanked the Iranian leadership for trusting Pakistan's "sincere and honest" mediation efforts and assured Tehran that Pakistan would continue to play a constructive role in promoting lasting peace. "True brotherhood requires no questions or answers," he remarked, emphasizing that Pakistan would continue supporting peace initiatives based on dignity, honour, and mutual respect.

Highlighting the role of Pakistan's military leadership, Prime Minister Shehbaz particularly acknowledged the efforts of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, whom he credited with working tirelessly to facilitate dialogue and support the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding . "He worked untiringly through difficult days and nights with one mission: to do everything humanly possible to stop a war that could have brought devastation across vast regions," the prime minister said .

- Clarification on Ballistic Missile Issue

Addressing speculation regarding the contents of the MoU, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif clarified that ballistic missiles were neither included in the agreement nor discussed during negotiations, as the issue was "never on the table" . "I would say with fullest command at my domain that this MoU does not mention about ballistic missiles," he said at a joint press stakeout with President Pezeshkian.

The prime minister argued against double standards, saying it was unfair for some countries to possess ballistic missiles while questioning Iran's right to do the same. He cautioned against misinformation designed to derail the peace process, warning that "spoilers" were working against the agreement and trying to create confusion . "Pakistan and Iran will act as an iron wall against any forces seeking to undermine regional peace," he declared.

President Pezeshkian echoed Sharif's position, stating: "We shall never compromise on our missile program and capabilities. And this shall never be part of any agreement between Iran and any other party" .

Expressing solidarity with the people of Iran, Prime Minister Shehbaz offered his deepest condolences over the loss of innocent lives during the recent conflict. He commended President Pezeshkian's "sagacious, calm and vigilant leadership" that had helped pave the way for a more peaceful future.

The prime minister also appreciated the support extended by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt for advancing the peace initiative. Following the talks, he wrote on X: "We held warm and most cordial discussions wherein we reaffirmed our shared commitment to regional peace and the importance of pursuing dialogue and diplomacy to resolve all outstanding issues" .

Both leaders agreed to further strengthen the enduring Pakistan-Iran relationship and expand cooperation across all areas of mutual interest . The prime minister also announced that he would visit Tehran next week to pay respects to the late Iranian Supreme Leader and reaffirm Pakistan's solidarity with the people of Iran