Dr. Zahid Anwar Khan (IR Expert): There is no doubt that there is a great potential to further strengthen the relations in different walks of life between Pakistan and Iran. The Pakistan-Iran relationship has been evolving over time. The problem at the core of the Pakistan-Iran relationship has been a lack of politico-economic engagement between the two countries. However, the potential of improved Pak-Iran ties goes beyond isolated demonstrations of goodwill to socioeconomic windfalls for the two states. Iran can support Pakistan for the uplift of its economy. Pakistan can trade with Iran by way of barter: for instance, trading some of its rice and meat surpluses with Iran in exchange for Iranian gas and energy.

Waheed Ahmed (Former Ambassador): Pakistan has brotherly relations with Iran and there is a great potential of trade between both the countries. Pakistan and Iran have shared socio-cultural and geostrategic interests. Iran can support Pakistan to overcome the energy crises. The people of both the countries also have religious affiliation. It is a good development that Pakistan is promoting Business-to-Business Barter Trade Mechanism for trade in goods with Iran.