QUETTA: An Iranian delegation has called on Customs Collector Ashraf Ali and agreed upon constituting a trade committee, comprising officials of both Pakistan and Iran, to expand rail connections and provide relief on trade of food items.
These decisions were taken during the first sitting of the Pak-Iran trade session held in Quetta. The meeting was jointly chaired by Collector Ashraf Ali and head of Iranian delegation Nadir Mir. Business communities and government officials of both the countries were present.
The session reviewed various trade opportunities, including promotion of banking system and trade, between the two Muslim neighbouring countries.
“There is an immediate need to resolve the issues causing hurdles in trade between Pakistan and Iran. The session will be beneficial in increasing our trade with Iran,” said Ali, adding that Pakistan seeks to functionalise the banking sector with Iran.
The session stressed upon joint efforts to end the deprivation of Pak-Iran bordering provinces – Balochistan, and Sistan and Baluchestan (Iran province), highlighting that legal trade would be beneficial for developing the bordering provinces.
Lauding the hospitalities of the Pakistani government, the head of Iranian delegation said, “Pakistan Customs and other government organisations have been providing full cooperation and assistance to the Iranian government.
“The Pak-Iran trade session will help enhance bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries and increase trade activities.”