LAHORE: Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr Reza Amiri Moghadam, has said his country is fully prepared to defend itself against any “imminent adventurism,” while appreciating Pakistan’s principled stance and support.

In a meeting with PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz here on Wednesday, Dr Moghadam said: “While stressing Iran’s full readiness to defend itself against any imminent adventurism, I underline the steadfast determination of the Islamic Republic to pursue fair, equitable, and constructive negotiations aimed at resolving outstanding issues through dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to international norms.”

In a post on X after the meeting, he further said he exchanged views (with the Sharifs)on the latest regional developments, particularly in light of recent interventions by the United States and the Israeli regime, including their interventionist positions, threats and escalatory rhetoric.

US President Donald Trump is actively pressuring Iran to sign a new, comprehensive nuclear agreement, pairing this pressure with significant military build-ups in the Gulf and economic sanctions.

Lauds Pakistan’s principled stance, support

Reiterating the firm commitment of the Islamic Republic of Iran to further enhance Iran-Pakistan relations, Dr Moghadam appreciated the principled positions and continued support of the government of Pakistan toward Iran in various arenas.

“Iran and Pakistan are like two bodies and one soul, and that both nations have consistently demonstrated their love, commitment, and brotherhood throughout history and the test of time,” he said and added Pakistan and Iran shared the same region, community and deep-rooted bonds, and expressed gratitude to the Punjab chief minister for facilitating matters related to the Persian language and Iranian students.

During the meeting, Nawaz Sharif expressed concern regarding recent developments and imminent threats. He emphasized the importance of constructive negotiations based on mutual respect and equality, within the framework of international law and good faith, in accordance with the United Nations Charter.

The elder Sharif further said that dialogue and diplomacy, alongside the protection of national sovereignty and the rejection of any threat or use of force, constituted the path toward ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity throughout this already volatile region.

The PML-N president praised Iran for confronting challenges with courage and resilience, saying he would accompany the chief minister on a future visit to Iran to “salute the bravery of the Iranian nation.”

The participants of the meeting also discussed initiatives aimed at further strengthening the bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries.

Welcoming the Iranian ambassador, Maryam Nawaz invited investors from Iran to explore investment opportunities in Punjab, particularly in agriculture, information technology and tourism.

She reiterated her commitment to expanding economic and social linkages between the two countries.

Published in Dawn, February 5th, 2026