CM Balochistan- Governor Iran agree to boost trade, border cooperation
Islamabad, In a significant diplomatic engagement, Chief Minister of Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti met with Governor of Iran’s Sistan province Mansour Bajar to discuss strengthening bilateral ties.
The meeting focused on expanding trade, enhancing border cooperation, attracting investment, and promoting regional stability.
Chief Minister Bugti expressed heartfelt condolences over the martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader, assuring that the people of Pakistan, particularly Balochistan, stand in solidarity with the Iranian nation during this difficult time. Governor Bajar thanked the government and people of Balochistan for their support, noting that his visit aimed to deepen economic and trade relations between the two countries.
Governor Bajar highlighted that the current trade volume between Pakistan and Iran stands at approximately $3 billion, but with joint efforts, it could be increased to $10 billion. He emphasized that stronger border trade would not only boost economic activity but also help address security challenges.
Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti agreed, pledging that the Balochistan government would take all necessary measures to promote barter trade and achieve the $10 billion target. He stressed that economic growth directly contributes to peace, stability, and improved security.
Sarfraz Bugti announced that the three existing border markets along the Pakistan–Iran frontier would be made more effective, with plans to establish additional markets in the future. These initiatives aim to provide better employment and trade opportunities for border communities.
He also underscored the importance of upgrading the railway track from Chagai to Sukkur, which would facilitate cargo transport and further strengthen bilateral trade.
The Chief Minister revealed that a dedicated security division is being established to safeguard the Western Corridor. This move will secure mineral routes and reinforce trade with Iran, thereby consolidating economic ties. He reiterated that sustainable peace is the foundation of prosperity, urging both nations to work together against non-state actors to ensure stability for border communities.
Sarfraz Bugti welcomed Iranian interest in investing in Balochistan’s livestock sector, noting that modern slaughterhouses and cold storage facilities are being developed to support cross-border trade. He proposed forming joint working groups between Balochistan and Sistan to ensure consistent progress in trade, investment, agriculture, infrastructure, and people-to-people exchanges.
Concluding the meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen the historic, religious, and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Iran. They agreed to expand border trade, investment, and public engagement, while working together for peace, stability, and shared prosperity.