Islamabad: In the wake of escalating tensions in West Asia, Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi is poised to embark on a pivotal state visit to Pakistan on April 22. The announcement, which emerged from Pakistani media sources on Monday, signals a potential thaw in relations and a concerted effort to address mutual concerns.
During his visit, President Raisi is expected to engage in high-level discussions with key Pakistani figures, including Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari, and top military officials. This diplomatic engagement comes at a particularly charged moment, following Tehran’s launch of over 300 drones and missiles targeting Israel. This aggressive military action was reportedly in retaliation for an alleged Israeli airstrike on the Iranian Consulate in Damascus, Syria, which resulted in the tragic loss of several lives, including two senior commanders of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps.
The significance of President Raisi’s visit is further underscored by the recent strain in Pakistan-Iran relations. Earlier this year, tensions flared when Pakistan conducted precision strikes against militants within Iranian borders, allegedly in response to cross-border incursions by Iran. State media reported that these strikes targeted bases belonging to the Sunni Baloch militant group ‘Jaish al-Adl’ in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. The group, established in 2012, has been predominantly active in Pakistan.
In a bold move reflecting the gravity of the situation, Pakistan temporarily withdrew its ambassador from Iran, protesting the infringement of its sovereignty. The reciprocal departure of Iranian ambassadors underscored the diplomatic rift. However, the two nations swiftly moved to mend fences, reinstating their ambassadors and resuming normal diplomatic operations.
The agenda for President Raisi’s visit is comprehensive, encompassing bilateral relations, security cooperation, and discussions on the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline and a potential free trade agreement (FTA). These talks are crucial, given the substantial economic stakes involved, particularly the strategic gas pipeline project.
In a gesture of goodwill and recognition of the fraternal ties binding the two countries, Iran has pledged to repatriate Pakistani nationals stranded aboard a vessel seized by Iranian forces. This decision, contingent upon citizenship verification and legal formalities, exemplifies the enduring bond between Pakistan and Iran.
The upcoming visit of President Raisi holds the promise of reinforcing diplomatic ties, enhancing economic cooperation, and fostering regional stability amidst a backdrop of geopolitical turbulence.
