QUETTA: Iran’s Consul General in Quetta, Mohammad Karimi Todashki, has highlighted the need to take effective measures to remove the barriers to bilateral trade between Pakistan and Iran.

Speaking at a meeting with office-bearers of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) and leading business figures, he said that there was an urgent need to remove the obstacles. He emphasised that both countries must take effective measures at the highest level to achieve this objective.

“Iran is fully committed to strengthening trade relations with Pakistan and will extend every possible cooperation to resolve the issues faced by the business community,” the Iranian envoy said.

Mr Todashki said Iran considered the concerns of Balochistan’s business community as its own concerns and would continue making every effort to address them. He added that discussions were under way with the authorities to improve facilities at the Gabd-Rimdan border and other trade crossings, simplify customs procedures, and accelerate trade activities.

QCCI President Haji Muhammad Ayub Mariani called for the Gabd-Rimdan border crossing to remain open 24 hours a day to ensure uninterrupted imports and exports, thereby preventing unnecessary delays and financial losses for traders.

He pointed out that the Gabd-Rimdan border experienced heavy congestion owing to the daily passage of hundreds of vehicles.

Published in Dawn, July 28th, 2026