Neighbors Pakistan and Iran have pledged to work together against Afghanistan-based militants, recognizing the serious threat they pose to regional and global security. The commitment was made in a joint statement following a visit by Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi to Islamabad, where he met with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and other officials. Both countries emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation on counter-terrorism and security to combat terrorism effectively.
The surge in militant violence in Pakistan, particularly by Afghanistan-based Pakistani Taliban and insurgents, has become a growing concern. The Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP, is a separate group but has been allied with the Afghan Taliban. Pakistan has experienced an increase in attacks by the Pakistani Taliban since the Afghan Taliban came to power in 2021. The Afghan Taliban government has denied providing a safe haven for the Pakistani Taliban or any other militant group on Afghan soil, leading to tensions and cross-border strikes between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Iran has also faced security challenges from an Afghanistan-based Islamic State affiliate, which has been responsible for attacks in Iran. The affiliate is active in Pakistan’s Baluchistan region, bordering Iran, where security forces have been targeted. Pakistan has urged Tehran to take stern action against Pakistani insurgents living near the border in Iran, as they pose a threat to security in the region. Both countries have agreed to make their common border a “border of peace and friendship” and to cooperate in combating threats such as narcotics smuggling, human trafficking, and money-laundering.
In addition to security cooperation, Pakistan and Iran have pledged to expand trade and economic cooperation, setting up new border markets, crossings, and economic free trade zones. They have discussed the gas pipeline project, initiated in 2013, to supply Iranian natural gas to Pakistan. The project has been on hold due to fears of U.S. sanctions, as Washington opposes it on the grounds of violating sanctions imposed on Tehran. The two countries are exploring ways to move forward with the project, which could help address Pakistan’s energy needs.
Both Pakistan and Iran have condemned the suspected Israeli strike on a consular building next to the Iranian Embassy in Syria, which resulted in casualties including two Iranian Guard generals. Iran responded with direct strikes on Israel in retaliation. The incident highlights the complexities of regional conflicts and the potential for escalation. It also underscores the need for Pakistan and Iran to continue working together to address security threats and promote stability in the region. The two countries have affirmed their commitment to cooperation in various areas, including counter-terrorism, security, trade, and economic development.
Overall, the visit by Iran’s President Raisi to Pakistan was aimed at strengthening ties and enhancing collaboration between the two neighboring countries. The joint statement reflects a shared commitment to addressing common challenges and building a united front against terrorism. As Pakistan and Iran navigate complex security dynamics in the region, their collaboration and strategic partnership will be essential in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity. The discussions on various issues, including security cooperation, economic ties, and the gas pipeline project, underscore the importance of continued engagement and cooperation between the two countries.
