NEW YORK: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani in a meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on the sidelines of the UNGA on Wednesday expressed a desire to be part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as both leaders expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory in Pak-Iran bilateral ties.

Rouhani lauded the PM Nawaz's vision which he said translated the CPEC into reality. Connectivity projects were recognised by both countries' leaders as vital to the progress of the region.

Rouhani said Iran considers Pakistan’s economic development as its own development. Both sides discussed opportunities for bilateral cooperation in the field of energy, especially oil, gas and electricity.

They noted that progress on Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline and electricity import from Iran would help Pakistan overcome its energy shortages in the coming years.

The Iranian president said there is a need for defence cooperation between the two countries, as they have a history of cooperation in this regard. Pakistan's security is the security of Iran, he said.

Nawaz apprised Rouhani of Indian brutalities in held Kashmir.

The Kashmiri people are victims of heinous acts of state-sponsored terrorism at the hands of Indian forces, Nawaz said, adding that the situation in the valley remains tense in the wake of the uprising after Wani's death.

The prime minister also stressed the need to build unity and cohesion within the Muslim world, particularly at a time of turmoil.

Rouhani extended an invitation to Iran to the prime minister. Nawaz accepted the invitation and said that he would visit Tehran soon.

Opinion

Editorial

On desertions
Updated 28 May, 2023

On desertions

Clearly, the temptation to relapse into old habits was too difficult to resist.
Unethical disclosure
28 May, 2023

Unethical disclosure

IN its glee over the travails of its nemesis, the PTI, at the hands of the establishment, the government has sunk to...
India’s bloodlust
28 May, 2023

India’s bloodlust

THE Indian establishment seems determined to send veteran Kashmiri leader Yasin Malik to the gallows. The Jammu...
Election uncertainty
Updated 27 May, 2023

Election uncertainty

All political actors must call a ceasefire and agree to hold polls on time.
Poorer nation
Updated 27 May, 2023

Poorer nation

The citizenry has been left decidedly poorer by this government’s mismanagement.
Subdued Games
27 May, 2023

Subdued Games

THE National Games are supposed to be a quadrennial celebration of Pakistan’s top athletes who showcase their...