In a move set to deepen ties between Iran and Pakistan, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian touched down in Lahore on Saturday for a significant two-day official visit.

This marks his first foreign trip since taking office and signals a renewed push toward strengthening bilateral trade relations and enhancing regional cooperation.

President Pezeshkian received a warm welcome at Allama Iqbal International Airport from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and PML-N President Nawaz Sharif. Accompanied by a high-level Iranian delegation, including senior ministers and top officials, the visit aims to boost economic partnerships and cross-border collaboration between the neighboring nations.

Before his departure from Tehran, President Pezeshkian shared his vision with the media: “The objective of this trip is to boost commercial and economic ties.” He emphasized that discussions will revolve around enhancing bilateral trade relations, securing the border, and promoting peace in the region.

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“We believe that cross-border markets and connectivity can open new avenues for mutual cooperation,” he added, highlighting Iran’s growing interest in Pakistan’s economic corridors and trade opportunities.

A major highlight of the visit is Iran’s interest in actively participating in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a vital part of China’s One Belt, One Road (OBOR) initiative. Pezeshkian noted, “The OBOR project offers Iran an opportunity to connect with Europe,” while reaffirming that any attempts to disrupt Islamic unity between Iran and Pakistan would not succeed.

During his stay, President Pezeshkian is scheduled to meet with President Asif Ali Zardari and engage in delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The Pakistani premier had invited him during his own visit to Iran on May 26.

According to Mehdi Sanai, Political Adviser to the Iranian President, the visit also includes interactions with cultural and business leaders. “The relations between the two countries encompass political, economic, religious, and cultural dimensions,” Sanai shared on X (formerly Twitter).

Key topics on the agenda include expanding trade from the current $3 billion to an ambitious $10 billion target, improving border cooperation, and unlocking new trade routes. The emphasis on regional economic cooperation is a clear sign of both nations seeking shared growth and stability.