Pakistan and Iran have agreed to work closely to promote regional peace, security and prosperity following a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian in Türkiye.
The two leaders met on Wednesday, November 11, on the sidelines of the Leaders’ Summit of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya. They discussed bilateral relations, regional developments and opportunities to expand cooperation across different sectors.
According to Pakistan’s Press Information Department, both leaders reaffirmed their countries’ longstanding ties and stressed the importance of strengthening bilateral relations in areas of mutual interest.
Shehbaz Sharif Calls for Dialogue and De-escalation
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep concern over the prolonged conflict in the region. He emphasized that dialogue, restraint, de-escalation and sustained diplomatic engagement were essential to achieving lasting peace and stability.
The prime minister also highlighted the importance of building on the understandings reached under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in June 2026.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to continue playing a sincere and constructive diplomatic role in supporting regional peace and stability.
President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan’s consistent diplomatic support to Iran and its efforts to promote peace and security in the region.
The two leaders also agreed on the importance of maintaining regular consultations and close coordination to address shared challenges and pursue emerging opportunities.
Islamabad MoU and Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role
The reference to the June 2026 Islamabad MoU highlights Pakistan’s involvement in diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict between Iran and the United States.
Pakistan and Qatar served as mediators in the process. The first round of high-level talks under the MoU framework concluded in Switzerland on June 22, 2026, with representatives from Iran and the United States participating.
The discussions led to an agreement to establish a High-Level Committee to oversee mediation efforts. Working groups were also planned to address nuclear issues, sanctions, monitoring and dispute resolution.
The framework included efforts to improve communication between the parties and prevent further escalation.
By referring to the MoU, Sharif reiterated Islamabad’s intention to continue supporting diplomatic engagement and efforts to reduce regional tensions.
Pakistan and Iran Seek Stronger Bilateral Relations
President Pezeshkian highlighted the historical relationship between Pakistan and Iran, describing their ties as rooted in centuries of shared history, culture and faith.
He reaffirmed Tehran’s desire to expand cooperation with Pakistan across a wide range of sectors.
Beyond diplomatic engagement, both countries have also been working to strengthen economic and trade relations. In August 2026, Pakistan and Iran concluded the 10th session of their Joint Trade Committee, agreeing to pursue a shared target of $10 billion in annual bilateral trade.
The two sides also discussed progress towards a proposed free trade agreement, expanded barter trade, industrial cooperation, investment, joint border markets and improved customs and transport arrangements.
These efforts reflect the broader agenda of strengthening economic links alongside political and diplomatic cooperation.
Ministers Attend Meeting in Antalya
Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and Senator Sherry Rehman attended the meeting, along with senior officials from Pakistan and Iran.
The discussions took place as world leaders gathered in Antalya for COP31, providing an opportunity for bilateral meetings alongside the international climate summit.
Shehbaz Sharif Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Stability
Following the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif shared his remarks on social media platform X.
He said Pakistan would continue playing a sincere and constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond, building on the understandings reached under the Islamabad MoU.
The prime minister reiterated that dialogue, restraint, de-escalation and sustained diplomacy were the way forward for achieving lasting peace. He also conveyed Pakistan’s concern over the prolonged regional conflict.
Sharif described his meeting with President Pezeshkian as an opportunity to reaffirm the deep and enduring bonds between the two countries. He said both sides had agreed to further strengthen cooperation.
He added that Pakistan and Iran would continue working together towards a peaceful, secure and prosperous future for their peoples and the wider region.
The meeting underscores the two countries’ stated commitment to maintaining close diplomatic coordination, strengthening bilateral relations and supporting efforts to address regional challenges through dialogue.
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