VP Aref Urges Revival of Iran-Pakistan Border Markets to Boost Trade and Cooperation

Iranian Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref met with Pakistan’s Minister of Commerce and Trade, Jam Kamal Khan, in Tehran on Tuesday to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

During the meeting, Aref highlighted the long-standing relations between Iran and Pakistan, emphasizing shared historical, cultural, and religious ties as a solid foundation for deeper collaboration across multiple sectors.

Aref stressed Iran’s readiness to enhance cooperation in economic, trade, scientific, cultural, and other areas of mutual interest. He also underscored the shared perspectives of the two countries on political, regional, and international issues, noting that any minor differences can be resolved through dialogue and negotiation.

On the regional front, Aref emphasized common views on the Palestinian issue, condemning the brutal attacks by the Israeli regime on Palestinian civilians. He also highlighted the importance of strengthening regional cooperation through platforms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).

Looking to the future, Aref expressed Iran’s readiness to collaborate on advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and quantum technology, to improve the welfare of citizens. He also pointed to the untapped potential of tourism in fostering bilateral relations, suggesting that part of economic exchanges could be conducted through barter trade.

For his part, Jam Kamal Khan highlighted his constructive talks with Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, stressing the need to activate the Joint Economic Commission to boost trade. Khan noted that both countries have significant potential to expand economic exchanges and deepen bilateral ties.