ISLAMABAD, 29 November 2021, (TON): President Dr Arif Alvi met with President of Iran Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, on the sidelines of the 15th Summit of Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

President Alvi congratulated his counterpart on assuming the office of the President of Iran after his victory in the recent elections.

Alvi underlined that Pakistan considered Iran as an important Muslim neighbour and brother based on deep-rooted historical, linguistic, religious and cultural linkages between the two countries.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction with regular high-level interactions that had reinforced different avenues of bilateral cooperation.

President Alvi highlighted that Pakistan prioritised geo-economic prosperity and regional connectivity. He expressed satisfaction at the recent operationalisation of the International Road Transport (TIR) shipments from Pakistan to Turkey and Azerbaijan, which would benefit the entire ECO region.

While referring to the recently held Iran-Pakistan Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting in Tehran, Alvi underscored the importance of regular meetings for bilateral mechanisms for trade and economy. He also emphasised utilising the barter trade mechanism in this respect.

President Alvi thanked Iran’s consistent support to the Kashmir cause, particularly from the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.