Pakistan and Iran Plan Official Visits to Boost Cross‑Border Trade - Asalaamualaikum
Asalaamualaikum - Pakistan and Iran are organizing official visits to strengthen trade ties and expand economic cooperation along their shared border, according to a joint statement after Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan met Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri‑Moghaddam on Saturday.
The two neighboring countries have been using border markets and barter arrangements in recent years to work around banking and currency limits. Due to sanctions and foreign exchange shortages, barter systems and cross‑border markets have become important tools for Iran’s trade with Pakistan.
Their meeting follows the Pakistan‑Iran Joint Economic Commission in September, where both sides talked about practical ways to increase bilateral trade. The commerce minister suggested arranging high‑level visits - for example, the Chief Minister of Balochistan and the Governor of Zahedan - to make cross‑border trade easier and improve livelihoods in border communities. He also recommended inviting Pakistani ministers responsible for maritime, railways, and communications to Iran to explore cooperation in those areas.
Both countries reiterated their shared aim of reaching $10 billion in annual trade by 2028, pointing to recent steps like reopening the Mand‑Pishin border market and resuming Quetta‑Zahedan flights as signs of better coordination.
The minister invited Iranian firms and state organizations to take part in the FoodAg exhibition in Karachi from November 25–27, noting such events can help Pakistani and Iranian businesses find opportunities for trade, investment, and joint ventures in the agri‑food sector.
Ambassador Amiri‑Moghaddam said Iran has made progress in trade, completing imports of 400,000 tons of rice from Pakistan and being prepared to buy animal feed and maize under current agreements.
May Allah make these efforts beneficial for the people on both sides of the border and bring ease to those who depend on cross‑border commerce.
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