The Ambassador of Iran to Pakistan, Reza Amiri, made a significant visit to the headquarters of the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) in Islamabad on Friday. The engagement underscored the deep-rooted fraternal bonds between the two neighboring nations and explored avenues for stronger collaboration, particularly in the media sphere.
Strengthening Brotherhood and Strategic Ties
During his meeting with APP's Managing Director, Muhammad Asim Khichi, Ambassador Amiri warmly praised the affection held by the Pakistani people for Iran. He firmly stated that Pakistan and Iran are reliable friends who stand by each other in times of need. The diplomat recalled Pakistan's steadfast support during historical challenges, including its bravery in past conflicts.
Outlining a concrete vision for the future, Ambassador Amiri revealed that the current bilateral trade volume stands at $3.3 billion, with a shared ambitious target to elevate this figure to $10 billion annually. He identified multiple sectors for potential collaboration, including joint military exercises, enhanced commerce, and richer cultural exchanges.
Media Alliance Against Misinformation
A central theme of the discussion was the powerful role of media in shaping public perception and strengthening ties. The Ambassador emphasized the critical importance of direct news exchange between Iran's Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) and APP. He argued that such cooperation is vital not only for expanding relations but also for combating the spread of misinformation and fostering genuine people-to-people connections.
To further bridge the gap between the two nations, Ambassador Amiri highlighted ongoing efforts to improve physical connectivity. These initiatives include the opening of new border crossings and the commencement of direct flights from Islamabad to Tehran, facilitating easier travel and interaction.
High-Level Engagement and Mutual Appreciation
In a move signaling continued diplomatic momentum, the Iranian envoy extended a formal invitation for the President of Pakistan to visit Iran in the near future. This follows a series of recent high-level visits between the two countries, reflecting a mutual desire to deepen engagement.
On his part, APP Managing Director Muhammad Asim Khichi expressed gratitude for Iran's consistent support for Pakistan on key international issues, notably the Palestinian cause. He pledged to work towards enhancing cooperation in trade, culture, and media. Khichi also pointed to the significance of shared sacred places and pilgrimage in further solidifying the unique bilateral relationship.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from both sides, including APP's Executive Director Sabeen Usman Khattak, Director Marketing Ali Raza Alvi, Deputy Director Diplomatic and Global Affairs Mudassar Iqbal, as well as officials from the Iranian Embassy, Hadi Gulraiz and Mr. Habib.
