PESHAWAR: Iranian Consul General in Peshawar Ali Banafsheh Khah on Wednesday emphasised the need to strengthen economic cooperation between Pakistan and Iran, saying enhanced bilateral engagement could open new avenues for trade and investment.

Speaking during a visit to the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), he said the two neighbouring countries shared longstanding cultural, commercial and traditional ties and expressed Iran’s willingness to further strengthen economic relations with Pakistan.

SCCI president Junaid Altaf called for launching joint ventures, exchanging business delegations and organising single-country exhibitions to increase bilateral trade.

He said both countries should utilise each other’s economic potential and experience and promote cooperation in sectors of mutual interest through industrial collaboration and investment.

Participants also stressed the need for easing visa procedures for businessmen and facilitating long-term multiple-entry business visas to support trade and investment activities.

The meeting called for signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between business institutions of both countries to promote information sharing and investment cooperation.

Mr Altaf urged Islamabad and Tehran to formulate a joint mechanism to address tariff and duty-related issues and remove barriers affecting the business community.

Published in Dawn, June 25th, 2026