Islamabad: Pakistan and Iran have agreed to elevate their bilateral trade target to $8 billion annually. The decision was made during high-level discussions held in Islamabad between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, and Iran’s Minister for Industry, Mine, and Trade, Mohammad Atabak.
The meeting marked a renewed commitment to economic cooperation and regional integration, with both nations pledging to fast-track efforts to boost trade and connectivity. Minister Kamal emphasized the importance of converting the two countries' geographical proximity into tangible economic gains, declaring it time to “accelerate trade ties” with Iran.
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Pakistan, Iran set $8bn annual trade target in bid to deepen bilateral ties on 03 August 2025.[/caption]
A key outcome of the talks was the agreement to convene the next session of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Economic Commission at the earliest opportunity. The two sides also launched a fresh round of business-to-business (B2B) engagements aimed at fostering private sector collaboration.
Discussions covered a broad range of sectors, including agriculture, energy, livestock, logistics, and IT services. The ministers highlighted the need for more efficient use of border facilities and trade corridors to unlock the full potential of cross-border commerce.
Minister Kamal described the Pakistan-Iran relationship as a “symbol of trade, culture, and brotherhood,” underscoring the role of economic ties in strengthening historic bonds. Echoing this sentiment, Minister Atabak said closer cooperation between Tehran and Islamabad could serve as a force for regional stability.
On the diplomatic front, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to its time-honored and fraternal relationship with Iran.
President Pezeshkian welcomed the gesture, expressing Iran’s strong interest in expanding cooperation in mutually beneficial areas.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly received President Pezeshkian upon his arrival at the PM’s House on Sunday.
