Pakistan, Iran agree to strengthen collaboration as Naqvi meets Iranian counterpart in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met his Iranian counterpart Eskandar Momeni in Islamabad on Wednesday, where the two leaders reviewed Pakistan-Iran relations and the changing regional scenario following recent diplomatic developments, the interior ministry said.

Following the US-Iran agreement reached after high-level talks in Switzerland under the so-called “Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding” to reduce tensions in the Middle East, the two leaders discussed in detail bilateral relations and the latest regional situation, the ministry said.

During the meeting, the interior minister of Iran complimented Naqvi for the warm welcome given to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and the team during their visit to Pakistan. Both sides expressed satisfaction at the recent de-escalation of regional tensions.

Naqvi thanked the Iranian minister on the joint statement published following the US-Iran negotiations saying the result was a reflection of real diplomatic efforts. He said Pakistan has always desired peace and stability at global level and will continue efforts for durable peace in the Middle East.

In a statement, it said both parties agreed to boost cooperation in areas including as security, counterterrorism, cybersecurity and immigration. Momen also said that he would soon visit Pakistan to further improve collaboration between the two interior ministries.

He commended Pakistan’s positive role in promoting dialogue and regional understanding. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif earlier stated the two countries would be a “iron wall” against forces trying to destabilise peace. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also called for a united Muslim front and a new regional security framework during his visit.