LAHORE: President of Pakistan’s ruling party Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif have received Iranian Ambassador Dr. Raza Amiri Moghadam in Lahore, where the two sides pledged to strengthen bilateral ties.
The Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leadership warmly welcomed the ambassador and discussed strengthening bilateral relations, regional matters, energy cooperation, and trade enhancement.
Both sides expressed a strong commitment to elevating Pakistan-Iran ties to unprecedented levels, state-run PTV reported on Monday.
The Iranian Consul General in Lahore, Mehran Mohebid Far, was also present on the occasion.
Nawaz Sharif reflected on the deep-rooted historic bonds between Pakistan and Iran, praising the Iranian President as a visionary and highly respected leader.
He emphasised his aspiration to advance relations between the two countries to the highest possible stage, underscoring Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran during challenging times, including periods of conflict.
He also lauded Iran’s spiritual leadership and cultural connections with Pakistan, highlighting the affectionate manner in which Iranians refer to Allama Iqbal as “Iqbal Lahori.”
Regarding Iran’s victory over Israel, Nawaz Sharif conveyed warm congratulations from the Pakistani people to their Iranian brothers.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif described the recent visit of Iran’s President as a milestone in strengthening the bilateral partnership.
She acknowledged Iran’s support during Pakistan’s devastating floods, stressing that Punjab’s timely measures saved thousands of lives despite heavy losses.
She further noted her personal interest in Persian studies and underlined the deep-rooted historical and cultural bonds between the two nations.
Honored to call on H.E. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Honourable Pakistan President Muslims League (Nawaz), we reviewed the different aspects of the bilateral relations between Iran and Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/oudOOzb871
— Reza Amiri Moghadam (@IranAmbPak) September 8, 2025
Ambassador Dr. Raza Amiri Moghadam remarked that economic, trade, and cultural ties between Pakistan and Iran are steadily strengthening over time.
He noted that Lahore has become a key destination for visiting Iranian delegations, positioning itself as a regional hub.
The ambassador also commended Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for her initiatives in promoting tourism and culture, highlighting their role in attracting increased interest and engagement in Punjab.
He announced that Iran will celebrate Iqbal Day on November 9, and that an Iranian musical band is scheduled to visit Pakistan on the occasion.
The ambassador shared that more than 300 Iranian students are currently enrolled in Pakistani universities.
Dr. Moghadam praised Pakistan’s principled stance on Gaza and acknowledged Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s humanitarian efforts during the recent floods, describing her as a leader deeply respected by the Iranian people.
He further highlighted the government’s economic achievements, noting that when it assumed office, Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves stood at just $3 billion.
Today, he said, reserves have risen above $20 billion, while inflation has decreased significantly—from 40 percent to under 5 percent.
He urged for greater promotion of the Persian language in Punjab’s universities to further strengthen cultural linkages.
