Pakistan and Iran Hold Talks on Railway Cooperation and Regional Situation
Pakistan and Iran held discussions on Thursday focused on expanding railway cooperation between the two countries, alongside a broader exchange on the regional security and diplomatic situation. The talks reflect Islamabad's interest in enhancing cross-border connectivity with Tehran as a component of its western trade corridor strategy.
Railway links between Pakistan and Iran have long been discussed as a mechanism to facilitate trade, reduce logistics costs, and strengthen bilateral economic ties. The existing rail connection at the Taftan border crossing remains limited in capacity and operational frequency, and both sides have periodically signalled intent to upgrade it.
The discussions on the regional situation are understood to encompass ongoing developments related to US-Iran nuclear negotiations, Gulf tensions, and their implications for Pakistan's western neighbourhood. Islamabad has maintained active diplomatic channels with Tehran despite external pressures.
Expanding railway infrastructure between the two neighbours would also serve Pakistan's broader interest in overland connectivity to Central Asia and Europe via Iran's rail network, aligning with long-term trade diversification goals.
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