An Iranian delegation headed by H.E Reza Rahmani, Minister for Industry, Mines and trade called on Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Ali Zaidi here today. The delegation also included Mr Yazdan Seif, Deputy Minister for Agriculture and Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan H.E Mehdi Honardoost. Secretary, Maritime Affairs, Mr Rizwan Ahmed was also present at the meeting. Minister for Maritime Affairs Ali Zaidi acknowledged the hospitality of Iran during the Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to Iran. Especially the reverence for Allama Iqbal as Iqbal-e-Lahori and the commonality of culture were appreciated by the participants from the both sides. The Minister reiterated on sorting out the contentious issues and strengthening the ties through increased bilateral trade and track three diplomacy. He also reemphasized the Pakistani stance over Israeli aggression on Golan Heights and illegal settlements, as was done by the Prime Minister during his visit to Iran. H.E Reza Rahmani hailed the Visit of the Prime Minister Imran Khan as a successful one. They agreed upon joint projects will bring prosperity for the people of both Iran and Pakistan, he observed. Ministry of Maritime Affairs Pakistan has a vital role to play in the needed infrastructure for these projects. The rail and road alone is not sufficient for the transit of trade potential present between the two countries and the sea route is the only feasible route as far as the economical transit is concerned said Iranian minister. Sea routes should be established and trade barriers should be removed for maximum benefit of the both countries. The Iranian delegation showed the resolve for resumption of the ferry service and their readiness for the signing of the related agreements. The trade potential between the two countries is enormous and has an unquestionable capability for the improvement of ties. Pakistani products are Iran's priority and we intend to cater our needs from Pakistan, said Mr Reza Rahmani. Currently, the major trade items are edible products and medicine, the delegation emphasized on the diversification of the trade goods. H.E Reza Rahmani conveyed that the Supreme Leader foresee long term relations between Pakistan and Iran. The Minister for Maritime Affairs, Ali Zaidi welcomed the proposals by the delegation and informed the audience about his resolve for the resumption of the ferry service. In addition to that he proposed the establishment of ship service that will include both transit for passengers and cargo. Option of barter trade was also deliberated upon for the expeditious increase in trade volume and eradication of barriers. Ali Zaidi also raised the issue of visa difficulties for Pakistani Seafarers and asked for the resolution of this issue as Pakistan's shipping Industry is experiencing a revival. The Iranian delegation showed an interest in the resolution of all issues tabled at the meeting. Both sides agreed upon the exchange of the lists comprising of the trade goods. *****
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