Iranian President congratulates Imran Khan, invites him to Tehran

ISLAMABAD: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday called Prime Minister-designate and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman Imran Khan.

The Iranian President congratulated him on his election victory. Both discussed bilateral relations and other matters of mutual interest.

President Rouhani said that Pakistan and Iran are not merely neighboring countries but also bonded by religious and cultural values.

He also invited Imran Khan for a formal visit to Iran which was gladly accepted. Imran Khan said he would visit Tehran as soon as transfer of government is completed, and respective Foreign offices will finalise the dates for the visit.

He further said that Pakistan wishes to strengthen trade & diplomatic relations with Iran.

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Last week the Iranian ambassador Mehdi Honordoost called on Imran Khan to congratulate on his election victory, and conveyed message of felicitation from Iranian President Hasan Rouhani.

Imran Khan said Pakistan is ready for trade with all neighbouring countries including Iran. He said their most important objective is to enable the national economy stand on its own feet.

He said Pakistan is also poised to play its positive role in improving relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia.

The Iranian envoy said Iran will welcome Pakistan’s suggestion for peace in the region. He said all avenues of cooperation and partnerships with Pakistan are open for regional peace and development.

Honordoost said the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project can change destiny of Pakistan, and they are ready for constructive talks regarding this project.