The two-day visit of Dr Ali Ardeshir Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran, to Pakistan marks a major milestone in the evolving relationship between the two brotherly nations.

As an emissary of the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei, Dr Larijani carried a message of goodwill, deeper cooperation, and shared strategic vision. His engagements in Islamabad and Rawalpindi covered a comprehensive spectrum; political, economic and security cooperations. Before landing in Pakistan, Dr Larijani wrote on X: “Iran and Pakistan are two important and influential countries in ensuring lasting security in the region, and we always pay close attention to the brotherly relations between the countries of the region.” His statement reflects the broader strategic understanding that binds the two neighbours and the growing recognition that regional peace is intertwined with closer Pak–Iran cooperation.

Iran and Pakistan share strong historical, cultural, and religious bonds. Their 900-kilometre land border offers vast opportunities for legitimate trade and regional connectivity. Unfortunately, international sanctions on Iran have limited conventional financial transactions, but both sides see barter trade as a viable alternative. Expanding formal trade would directly curb rampant smuggling and illegal cross-border commerce, which has long caused financial loss to both........

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