Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif stressing the importance of enhanced cooperation with Iran, has said that energy projects and border markets are emblematic of the vitality of Pakistan-Iran friendship.

In an interview with Iranian News Agency IRNA, he said Pakistan and Iran are brotherly countries bound by deep-rooted religious, cultural, and linguistic ties.

The Prime Minister said both the governments are collaborating closely for the betterment and socio-economic uplift of our peoples.

The Prime Minister said he strongly believes the Polan-Gwadar electricity project and Mand-Pishin border marketplace are emblematic of the vitality of Pakistan-Iran friendship and a testimony of the strength of our mutual cooperation.

Shehbaz Sharif said the border markets including Mand-Pishin sustenance marketplace will not only ameliorate the socioeconomic conditions of our border regions, but also foster new opportunities for local businesses. He said the border markets would enhance trade and contribute to the development of our nations. He said it would also serve as a stepping stone for greater cooperation between the Pakistan and Iran, especially in the economic domain.

The Prime Minister said we will continue to work for deepening connectivity between our two countries in all fields, particularly given our highest commitment to complement each other in promoting regional trade, transit and connectivity.

He said there is tremendous scope and mutual desire for the actualization of our trade potential and both Pakistan and Iran are deeply committed to achieving an annual trade volume of 5 billion dollars.

Replying to a question about Afghanistan, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan remains committed to the goal of promoting shared prosperity for Afghanistan and the region. He said a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is instrumental to regional peace and prosperity.

The Prime Minister urged the international community to stand by the people of Afghanistan at this critical juncture saying that constructive engagement with the Interim Afghan Government is quite imperative.

About resumption of diplomatic ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia, Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the governments of Iran and Saudi Arabia in this regard. He said this milestone achievement is a testament to the vision and foresight of the astute leadership of Iran and Saudi Arabia and the valuable role played by China.