Pakistan, Iran satisfied over IPI progress

Islamabad, Jan 4 (UNI) Pakistan and Iran today expressed satisfaction over the progress achieved towards the mega Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) gas pipeline projects.

''The two sides were satisfied over the progress that includes reaching agreement on the draft of Intergovernmental Framework Declaration,'' Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Muhammad Sadiq said after his Iranian Foreign minister Manuchehr Mottaki's visit to Pakistan.

The talks between the two foreign ministers covered bilateral as well as regional and global subjects of mutual interest.

''The two sides expressed satisfaction at the state of bilateral relations and reiterated the resolve to raise bilateral trade and economic cooperation to a level commensurate with the quality of their political ties,'' Mr Sadiq said.

Mr Mottaki, who also met President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Muhammad Mian Soomro, expressed Iran's support for Pakistan's endeavours against the menace of terrorism and extremism, that has come to threaten the stability of the entire region.

Mr Mottaki also expressed Iranian leadership's solidarity with Pakistan at this important juncture of its history and extended condolences on the tragic assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.

Pakistan leadership thanked the government and people of Iran for the expression of condolences, sympathy and support.

''Pakistan and Iran enjoy close brotherly relations that are rooted in shared faith, historical and cultural links, besides common interests as neighbouring countries,'' the spokesperson said.

He added that high level political dialogue is common feature of these relations. The visit of the Foreign Minister of Iran was part of this dialogue.

UNI XC SYU RN2019