Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday called for a “united front” of Muslim nations. extending “hands of friendship” for a new regional security structure.
The Iranian president made the remarks during a one-day official visit to Pakistan, undertaken at PM Shehbaz’s invitation. The two leaders held a meeting at the Prime Minister House, which was followed by delegation-level talks.
Addressing a joint press conference later with the prime minister, Pezeshkian said he held “constructive meetings. discussions” with PM Shehbaz, President Asif Ali Zardari and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir.
“In these discussions, we had many good points talks. discussed regarding the latest developments in the region and in the world and also regarding bilateral relations,” he elaborated.
Pezeshkian observed that the two neighbours were “adamant to use the positive existing atmosphere to usher in a new era. open a new chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries and draw new horizons and new opportunities of cooperation based on shared interests”.
He said Iran believed that “peace, stability, sustainable security, development. the welfare of nations in the strategic region of West Asia and the Persian Gulf can only be ensured through straightforward and honest discussions, intra-regional cooperation, interactions and cooperation based on mutual respect for the countries in the region”.
“Based on this fact, we stretch our hands of friendship to establish a common understanding. build a new security structure for the countries in the region,” Pezeshkian added.
He noted that PM Shehbaz’s mention of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye. Egypt in his remarks alongside him was a “very well-placed mentioning of the roles that these authorities and these leaders actually played in the discussions that led to the peace”.
“I believe Muslims shall form a united front against their enemies,” the Iranian president said.
He went on to say that the “tremendous potentials” of Islamabad. Tehran, along with the political will of the leaders and support of their nations, can “elevate the relations between Iran and Pakistan to a level that is befitting the two countries’ position in the Islamic world and can produce a successful model of cooperation in solidarity and brotherhood”.
Pezeshkian declared that the two countries “share a strong resolve to promote. enhance interactions and relations, especially in the area of economy and trade”.
He observed that both countries’ ministers, within the framework of the MoUs. the agreements that have been made during last year’s visit, have “tried to remove any technical existing hurdles and operationalise the decisions that have been made”.
President Pezeshkian began his address by reciting verses by renowned poet Allama Iqbal. which he said continued to inspire unity among Muslim nations.
He said the two nations “do not merely live next to each other, but they share a common destiny in the majority of their aspirations, concerns. hopes”.
“Pakistan for us is not merely a neighbouring country; it’s a brotherly. friendly country and has been an amicable companion and has had deep historical, cultural, religious and popular bonds between the two nations and these bonds have brought our nations closer,” he highlighted.
Noting that the relations between Islamabad. Tehran have always been consolidated on the basis of mutual respect, goodwill and historical trust, Pezeshkian said the “recent developments have once again showcased the consolidation of this valuable asset”.
The president stated: “In a critical historical juncture that the region is facing a multitude of challenges, the responsible. visionary role played by Pakistan in supporting the discussions and negotiations in de-escalating and strengthening the regional stability is a manifestation of a brotherly and futuristic attitude and viewpoint by this country towards the developments in the region.”
He observed that Iran’s acceptance of Pakistan’s initiative was a “reflection of the ancient. age-old trust that the Iranian nation has towards the nation, the government and the authorities of Pakistan”.
The visiting dignitary concluded his speech by thanking the Pakistani side for its hospitality. for accepting the invitation to the commemoration of the late Khamenei.
In his remarks at the joint press briefing, PM Shehbaz said he. President Pezeshkian held “very productive discussions in a very cordial atmosphere”.
“It was like a family reunion,. brothers were talking to each other with the fullest clarity and total commitment that we will do everything to strengthen our brotherly relations like never before,” he remarked.
He noted that Islamabad. Tehran have “consistently stood by one another in difficult times, and recent events have once again demonstrated beyond any ray of doubt the enduring strength of this brotherhood, this friendship and this partnership”.
The premier began his speech by reciting an Iranian couplet on the themes of friendship during challenging times.
PM Shehbaz described Pezeshkian as a “visionary and sagacious leader of a great country, Iran”. “But you’re a man of many talents. qualities — you are calm, you are wise and you are patient,” he added.
Recalling the Iranian president’s past treatment of patients in hospitals, PM Shehbaz congratulated him on “this very well-deserved conferment”.
He termed today a “historic moment between Pakistan and Iran”.
Recalling the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed last week between the United States. Iran, the premier said it was “a matter of great happiness that this war has come to an end, which could have engulfed the entire region and beyond”.
The prime minister hailed the “sagacious” leadership of Pezeshkian. his colleagues, and highlighted Pakistan’s role as an “honest and sincere mediator” in the US-Iran peace process.
At the outset of his address, PM Shehbaz referred to the US-Iran technical talks held in Switzerland. said, “My dear brother, we pray to Allah Almighty that God-willing, this arrangement will usher in a new era of peace, stability and prosperity for this entire region.”
The prime minister also appreciated the “wisdom. sagacity” of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei for guiding the Iranian nation through “these very difficult and challenging times”.
“Throughout this crisis, the entire Iranian nation, our Iranian brothers. sisters, have demonstrated their unity with honour and dignity,” he observed, praising their courage as “awe-inspiring”.
He went on to extend Pakistan’s deepest condolences on the “loss of thousands of precious lives, including the late Khamenei, who was a great visionary leader. respected by all and sundry around the Muslim world”.
The premier affirmed that the people of Pakistan share the grief of Iranians. stand in “complete solidarity with the people of Iran”.
“Your happiness is our happiness. Your sorrow is our sorrow,” PM Shehbaz remarked.
“Iran’s success is our success. Iran’s loss is our loss,” he added, inserting another Persian phrase in his speech. “This sentiment reflects deeply the feeling of the people of Pakistan.”
He highlighted that the two were “far more than just neighbours” and bound together by shared history, faith and culture.
The premier extended his country’s gratitude to the Iranian leadership for reposing their “abiding trust in Pakistan to initiate. mediate this peace process”. “We have done this act of mediation with fullest honesty of purpose and complete sincerity,” he declared.
He commended both the Iranian. US delegations for their “serious and constructive participation” in the Lake Lucerne Summit held in Switzerland.
Mentioning the “support. encouragement of many brotherly and friendly countries”, PM Shehbaz thanked the Qatari emir’s “pivotal role” and the “steadfast support and encouragement” of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El Sisi.
The prime minister hailed the “untiring efforts [and] unwavering commitment” of CDF Munir.
“Even during the dark days. he never wavered and, as a result, was instrumental in helping build the consensus that made this historic breakthrough possible by the grace of god,” he emphasised.
The premier went on to praise the “dedicated efforts” of Deputy PM. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and his team at the Foreign Office (FO), as well as the “valuable contributions” of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
PM Shehbaz also announced he would be undertaking a visit to Tehran next week to pay respects to late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. to “reaffirm and reassure Pakistan’s solidarity with our brotherly people of Iran”.
“Zindabad dosti Pakistan o Iran,” he concluded.
Addressing a delegation-level meeting between the two sides earlier. PM Shehbaz said it was a “great pleasure once again” to welcome Pezeshkian to Pakistan, as it was his second visit to Islamabad in his capacity as the president of Iran.
He said Pezeshkian’s acceptance of his invitation after the Islamabad MoU was a “matter of great happiness. satisfaction for all of us”.
The premier requested Pezeshkian to convey his warm regards to Iran’s supreme leader for his “sagacious leadership that Iran has been able to achieve this MoU. as a result, a ceasefire with dignity and honour”.
He also offered his deepest condolences “on the killings of innocent Iranian brothers. sisters, children, which run into thousands of people”.
PM Shehbaz said: “Yet, under your sagacious. very calm, visionary leadership, today, thanks to God, we are sitting here to peep into a very bright future, and I am very grateful to you and the Iranian leadership for having abiding trust in Pakistan’s ability to mediate with honesty and sincerity.
“I want to assure you that as brothers, we will never let you down,” he affirmed.
“As they say, true brotherhood doesn’t have any questions to answer. And here we are,” the prime minister said.
He further assured the Iranian leader that Pakistan will “carry on this important role until we have everlasting peace in place, on terms. conditions which are dictated by dignity and honour”. He also hailed the courage of Iranians.
Highlighting CDF Munir’s “outstanding contribution”, he remarked: “He has toiled. worked untiringly through the nights, through those dark days with one mission: come what may, we will do everything humanly possible to stop this war, which can burn vast swathes of land and devastate everything.”
The premier also appreciated the efforts of Dar and Naqvi for their “fine shuttle diplomacy”. “In that, brother Abbas Araghchi has played a pivotal role,” he added.
Earlier, the Iranian president was welcomed at the Prime Minister’s House with a guard of honour,. the two held a meeting before delegation-level talks.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who was at thedirect talksheld between the United States. Iran in Switzerland over the weekend, also accompanied Pezeshkian during the visit.
At PM House. the Iranian president engaged in a bilateral meeting with PM Shehbaz, according to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). CDF Munir and Deputy PM were also present on the occasion.
This was followed by delegation-level talks between the two sides, which PM Shehbaz addressed.
Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani. National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq were also expected to call on the Iranian president,accordingto the Foreign Office (FO).
Iran’s state mediaIRNAreported that FM Araghchi held talks with President Zardari. PM Shehbaz “only hours” before Pezeshkian landed in Pakistan.
Prior to Pezeshkian’s arrival at the PM House. he met with President Asif Ali Zardari, who reaffirmed Pakistan’s “principled support for Iran’s peace.
In their meeting at Aiwan-i-Sadr. President Zardari welcomed his Iranian counterpart on his first state visit to Pakistan since the US-Iran war, the presidency said.
“The two leaders discussed bilateral relations, mainly regional peace. security, bilateral and regional connectivity, economic cooperation and other issues of mutual interest,” the statement said.
President Zardari noted that the visit reflected the “longstanding brotherly relations between the two countries. a desire to stay together in good and bad times”.
He stressed that Pakistan has “consistently opposed one-sided initiatives. has supported dialogue and diplomacy as the means to achieve a durable and sustainable solution to regional and global challenges”.
He also underscored Pakistan’s “commitment to preserving the unity of the Muslim Ummah while maintaining strong fraternal relations with the countries of the Gulf region”. the presidency said.
President Zardari congratulated Pezeshkian on thesigningof theIslamabad MoUbetween the US. Iran and “expressed the hope that the ongoing technical-level negotiations would culminate in permanent peace in the region”.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s “principled support for Iran’s peace, stability, national unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity”.
The president again expressed his condolences on the “martyrdom of His Eminence Ali Hosseini Khamenei”, who wasassassinatedin US-Israelistrikes on Iran,. said that Pakistan would participate in his funeral.
Meanwhile, President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its “positive. constructive efforts in support of peace and dialogue and appreciated the support extended by Pakistan during [the] recent challenging circumstances”, the presidency said.
The Iranian president said his country “attaches great importance to its relations with Pakistan. looks forward to further expanding cooperation in political, economic, security and regional matters”
President Zardari requested President Pezeshkian to convey his warm regards to Iran’s supreme leader.
The Iranian president was accompanied by FM Araghchi, Chief of the President’s Office Mohsen Haji Mirzaei, Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, Chief of Political Affairs of President’s Office Saeed Abbas Mousavi. Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghaddam.
From the Pakistani side, Deputy PM Dar, PPP Chairman. former FM Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Naqvi, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry, Senate Chief Whip Saleem Mandviwala and ex-senator Dr Asim Hussain were present during the meeting.
Earlier in the day, CDF Munir called on the Iranian president. the two exchanged views on “regional developments and peace initiatives”, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR)said.
CDF Munir, along with PM Shehbaz, had participated in the US-Irantalksin Switzerland. Both leaders have been involved in efforts to secure peace in the Middle East after the US-Iran war erupted on February 28 as US-Israeli strikes hit Tehran.
During his meeting with the army chief, Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan’s “constructive. responsible role in promoting dialogue, de-escalation, and regional stability”, ISPR said.
It added that he acknowledged Pakistan’s “consistent efforts to encourage peaceful resolution of disputes. foster understanding among regional stakeholders at a time of heightened geopolitical challenges”.
On his part, CDF Munir reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to peace and stability in the region, the statement noted.
“Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening Pakistan-Iran relations. maintaining close consultations on issues of mutual interest, with the shared objective of advancing peace, prosperity and stability across the region,” it read.
Pezeshkian and Araghchi arrived in Pakistan on separate flights earlier in the day. The Iranian president flew to the federal capital from Iran, while the foreign minister’s last engagement was in Oman.
President Pezeshkian, upon his arrival at the Nur Khan airbase, was received by President Zardari, PM Shehbaz, Deputy PM Dar, Naqvi, Bilawal. Ambassador Moghaddam.
FM Araghchi, who had already landed in Pakistan, was also present to welcome his president.
Pezeshkian was accorded a 21-gun salute, while fighter jets conducted a flypast in his honour, state-runAPPreported. The president waved in response to the children’s welcoming slogans, it added.
Upon his arrival at Rawalpindi’s Nur Khan airbase earlier in the day, Araghchi was welcomed by Dar, Naqvi and Bilawal.
“The leadership. people of Pakistan extend a warm welcome to Foreign Minister Araghchi and the Iranian delegation to Islamabad,” the FOsaid.
In an earlier statement. the FO noted Pezeshkian’s visit was his second to Pakistan in his capacity as the president of Iran.
It said the visit would provide an opportunity for the two sides to review the full spectrum of bilateral relations. explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in trade, energy, border security, people-to-people exchanges and regional connectivity.
It also termed the visit an “important opportunity to discuss ongoing diplomatic engagements following the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, as well as regional. international developments of mutual interest”.
“The forthcoming visit reflects the shared commitment of Pakistan. Iran to further deepen their historic and cultural ties and underscores their common aspiration for peace, stability, and sustainable progress in the region,” the FO added.
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) also cancelled judicial work for Tuesday. due to the closure of the Red Zone for the Iranian president’s visit. A notification issued by the IHC said that Tuesday’s cause list had been cancelled. adding that officials were directed to work from home.
However, it added that district courts would function as per routine.
Similarly. the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) also announced the suspension of judicial work at its principal seat in Islamabad due to the closure of the Red Zone in Islamabad.
“Consequently, the cause list of the Court stands cancelled. However, all officers and staff shall work from home and shall not leave the station. Besides, all four branch registries of the court shall remain open for judicial and administrative work,” the notification said.
Separately, the federal government issued a notification implementing a one-day “work from home” directive for various ministries.
According to a notification issued by Cabinet Division Secretary Kamran Ali Afzal, employees of ministries, divisions,. government offices located inside Islamabad’s Red Zone will work remotely. Furthermore, autonomous bodies and attached departments operating within the Red Zone will observe a full holiday.
However, essential federal institutions and banks were exempted from this order. These included the Prime Minister’s Office, the Senate, the National Assembly, the Cabinet Division, the Ministry of Finance. Revenue, the Federal Board of Revenue, and the ministries of foreign affairs, interior, commerce, industries, law, parliamentary affairs, and planning division, alongside all federal banking institutions.
All bus terminals operating in the capital wereclosedon Monday night as a security measure in view of the arrival of the Iranian president.
Officials of the capital administration. police said that the capital police, under directives from the capital administration, approached the managements of bus terminals in the capital, including those at Faizabad and Chongi No 26, and asked them to shut down their operations before midnight.
The managers were further asked to suspend their operations on Tuesday. The terminals will remain closed until the departure of the Iranian president. Besides, the Islamabad Red Zone has also been sealed as a security measure. Entry will be allowed only to concerned officials.
Further, Islamabad District Magistrate Irfan Nawaz Memon ordered the immediate closure of all popular hiking routes in the city.
The restriction applies to Trail 2, Trail 3, Trail 4, Trail 5,. the hiking tracks located behind Saidpur Village, remaining effective from Tuesday until further notice.
Pezeshkian’s visit followskey direct talks— dubbed the “Lake Lucerne Summit” — held between the United States. Iran in Switzerland, kicking off negotiations under the Islamabad MoUsignedon June 18.
Under the14-point accord, Washington. Tehran agreed on a framework to end the war, reopen theStrait of Hormuzand negotiate on key issues within 60 days of the signing.
The US-Iran talks in the Swiss resort of Burgenstock were mediated by Pakistan. Qatar, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir representing Pakistan.
The Lake Lucerne Summit created a mechanism for further technical talks, which will continue this week,. also set up communication lines to end the fighting in Lebanon and to keep the vital Strait of Hormuz open.
“Encouraging progress has been made,” the mediators said in their joint statement, including a contact channel set up to “avoid incidents. miscommunication” in the Strait of Hormuz.
A “de-confliction cell” between the parties. the Lebanese authorities has also been agreed upon to prevent fighting from erupting again.
Additional input from APP
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