Iranian President Raisi to Visit Pakistan Amid Regional Tensions

Ibrahim Raisi, the Iranian President, is scheduled to visit Pakistan on April 22, according to sources reported by Geo News. This visit comes amidst escalating regional tensions following Iran’s drone and missile strikes on Israeli territory.

Raisi is expected to be accompanied by a high-level delegation and will engage in meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari, and military leadership during his visit.

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The backdrop of Raisi’s visit includes Iran’s recent retaliatory strikes against Israel, prompted by an Israeli airstrike on its Damascus consulate that resulted in casualties, including senior IRGC commanders.

Despite tensions earlier this year, both countries are striving to deepen their cooperation, with efforts to mend diplomatic ties after a period of strain. The agenda of Raisi’s visit is reported to cover various bilateral matters, including security cooperation, the Pak-Iran gas pipeline, and the potential for a free trade agreement.

Additionally, in a separate development, Iran has announced the release of Pakistani nationals stranded on a seized ship, citing the strong fraternal ties between the two nations. Iranian envoy Reza Amiri Moqadam stated that the release would occur after confirming the nationality of the individuals and completing necessary legal formalities.