Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi arrived in Pakistan on Monday for a two-day official visit, the Foreign Office (FO) confirmed. Araghchi will meet with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar. The discussions will center on the escalating crisis in the Middle East and strengthening Pakistan-Iran relations.
Focus on Bilateral Cooperation
According to the FO, the visit will provide a platform to discuss and strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, economy, energy, and security. “This visit provides an important opportunity to advance cooperation and dialogue between Pakistan and Iran on a wide range of areas,” the FO stated. Both countries see this as a chance to boost regional ties and collaborate on pressing mutual interests.
Middle East Crisis Heightens
Araghchi’s visit occurs against a backdrop of intensifying conflict in the Middle East. Since October 7, 2023, Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza have resulted in over 43,000 Palestinian casualties. In addition to Gaza, Israel has increased its strikes in Lebanon, where approximately 2,000 have died since Israel ramped up its cross-border air raids on September 23, 2024.
The recent violence marks an escalation in the long-standing hostilities, now drawing attention from Iran, which shares deep political and ideological ties with Palestinian groups and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Tehran has publicly condemned Israel’s actions and voiced support for the Palestinians.
Iran’s Warning Against Israeli Aggression
Last week, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei warned that Tehran would “use all available tools” to counter Israel’s recent strikes on Iran. His comments followed Israeli airstrikes in Iran, which Tel Aviv described as retaliation for Iran’s missile barrage on October 1.
Consultations on Regional Stability
During his meetings, Araghchi will engage in high-level consultations on regional security and explore steps for de-escalation. Pakistan’s government has already voiced its concern over the violence and called for international intervention. Islamabad has consistently supported diplomatic solutions and condemned Israeli aggression, which it sees as destabilizing for the entire region.
Strengthening Pakistan-Iran Relations
Apart from the Middle East crisis, the visit will allow Pakistan and Iran to discuss broader cooperation. With Araghchi’s visit, both countries seek to reinforce ties that could foster economic growth and enhance security. This visit marks an essential moment in Pakistan-Iran relations, as both nations seek solutions to common regional and economic challenges amidst growing tensions.
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