Pakistan and Iran Strengthen Cooperation to Combat Terrorism and Enhance Border Security

During a two-day visit to Tehran, Pakistani army chief General Asim Munir and Iranian military officials held discussions on enhancing cooperation and addressing the common threat of terrorism. This visit marked General Asim’s first trip to Iran since assuming his role as army chief. Key issues discussed included border security and counterterrorism efforts.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) described the visit as successful, highlighting the detailed meetings between General Asim and his Iranian counterpart, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, and other military leadership. Both sides acknowledged that terrorism poses a shared threat to the region and agreed to collaborate on intelligence sharing and taking effective actions against terrorist networks. They also explored avenues for strengthening cooperation in the security domain.

General Asim also met with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahain, where the significance of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran for regional peace and stability was emphasized.

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The visit reflects a positive shift in Pakistan-Iran relations, which were previously marred by a trust deficit due to regional rivalries. The geopolitical environment has changed following China’s facilitation of a landmark reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia. As a result, Iran and Saudi Arabia have restored diplomatic ties, opening opportunities for improved relations between Pakistan and Iran.

Pakistan, as a direct beneficiary of the Iran-Saudi reconciliation, sees it as an opportunity to deepen security and economic cooperation with Iran. Previously, Pakistan had to carefully balance its relationships with both countries. With the recent developments, Pakistan aims to strengthen its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia while exploring economic cooperation with Iran, including barter trade arrangements to mitigate the impact of Western sanctions on Tehran.

China’s role in fostering closer ties between Iran and Pakistan has been instrumental, leveraging its influence to bring the two countries closer together.