Iranian foreign minister visits Pakistan amid tensions

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, commenced his visit to Pakistan on Monday, responding to an invitation from Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani. The visit takes place against the backdrop of recent tensions, marked by retaliatory strikes between the two nations.

Upon his arrival at Nur Khan airbase, Abdollahian received a warm welcome from Rahim Hayat, Pakistan’s Additional Foreign Secretary for Afghanistan and West Asia.

Scheduled discussions during the visit involve extensive talks between Abdollahian, Foreign Minister Jilani, and Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar. The primary goal is to address and enhance bilateral relations.

Tensions between the two countries escalated after Iran struck militant bases in southwestern Pakistan on January 16. Pakistan responded with retaliatory strikes on January 18, targeting the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF).

These reciprocal strikes have prompted concerns about regional stability, particularly in light of heightened tensions in the Middle East, notably the Israel-Hamas conflict since October 7.

Both Iran and Pakistan have expressed their commitment to de-escalating the situation. The Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a press release, noting the countries’ agreement to collaborate closely on counter-terrorism.

In a telephonic conversation, Foreign Minister Jilani and his Iranian counterpart, Amir-Abdollahian, emphasized the importance of mutual trust and cooperation. Jilani underscored the need for cooperation based on respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty between the two nations.