PM’s Visit to Iran Focuses on Boosting Trade to $10 Billion
In a major step to boost Pakistan’s economic diplomacy, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Tehran, Iran. The main goal of the visit was to increase trade between the two countries to $10 billion. The visit shows a renewed commitment from both sides to strengthen economic ties, share energy resources, improve border security, and promote cultural exchange.
Energy cooperation was a major focal point of the visit, especially as Pakistan seeks to curb its energy deficit.
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Extension of electricity import from Iran to the border regions in Balochistan
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Discussion on reviving the stalled Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline (also known as the Peace Pipeline)
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Talks on the barter system — oil and gas in exchange for Pakistani goods
Iran reaffirmed its willingness to provide low-cost energy to Pakistan and develop joint energy corridors.
Border security is essential not only for peace but also for facilitating trade. Both leaders agreed to:
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Strengthen the Joint Border Commission
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Deploy modern surveillance equipment
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Open more border markets (Mandis) like the one inaugurated in 2023 at Pashin-Mand
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Crack down on human trafficking and cross-border smuggling
This move is expected to benefit local border communities and bring economic uplift to neglected regions in Balochistan and Sistan-Balochistan.
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China welcomed the move as part of broader regional economic integration
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Russia expressed interest in tripartite trade corridors
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UN ESCAP called it a “win for regional connectivity.”
The move is also seen as counterbalancing Western economic dependencies by leveraging regional trade ecosystems.
“Pakistan’s economic recovery needs regional solutions. This visit is a step toward greater autonomy in trade.”
“This is not just diplomacy; it’s economic survival with dignity.”
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Monitor progress on bilateral projects
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Resolve trade barriers quickly
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Organize the next Pakistan-Iran Economic Summit in Quetta (2026)
Iran also invited Pakistan to participate in Chabahar Port expansion talks, with a promise of access to Central Asia via Iranian transit routes.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit may prove to be a turning point in Pakistan’s regional economic integration strategy. With a clear roadmap to boost bilateral trade to $10 billion, and tangible progress on energy, border management, and cultural diplomacy, the stage is set for a stronger, more self-reliant Pakistan in the global trade landscape.
