PR No. 3 Islamabad: March 1, 2018

An Iranian delegation headed by Brigadier General Hassan Shahsafi, Commander, Iran Air Force accompanied by Iranian Ambassador Mr. Mehdi Hoonardost called on National Security Adviser Lt. ( R ) General Nasser Khan Janjua this morning. They discussed options for improving the bilateral relations and matters pertaining to regional security. National Security Adviser warmly welcomed the guests and said that for Pakistan, Iran is an important country. Iran is not only a neighbour but also a brotherly country from historic, cultural and religious perspectives. “We believe that Pakistan and Iran shared a common future and need to enhance their cooperation”, he added. The Commander reciprocated the same sentiments and agreed that Pakistan and Iran need to come as much close as possible. He stressed on the importance of identifying and removing all the impediments affecting bilateral relations. NSA elaborated on the challenges faced by both the countries at regional and international levels and said that solution lies in the cooperative framework. While discussing the prospects of peace and stability in Afghanistan, the Commander said that Iran shares Pakistan’s views and believes that peace in Afghanistan is prerequisite for peace in the region. He also stressed on the need of unity in the Muslim World which is suffering the most these days. NSA acknowledged the concerns of the Commander and highlighted the role of Pakistan in the region and in the Muslim World. He reiterated that Pakistan, without taking sides, has played a positive and balanced role in the region and in Muslim world. Both Pakistan and Iran required deliberation and strategic patience to overcome the prevailing difficulties and to strengthen their bilateral relations and to move ahead together towards a brighter future. Both sides agreed to increase engagements at all levels in multiple areas including political, defence trade and economics.

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