LAHORE: The Pak International Business Forum (PIBF) has submitted a letter to the ambassador of Iran in Pakistan, proposing a comprehensive six-point agenda to significantly enhance bilateral trade, investment, energy cooperation and economic integration between the two countries.
In the letter, PIBF President Dr Mushtaq Mangat and Secretary General Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer emphasised that Pakistan and Iran enjoy longstanding historical, cultural, religious and geographical ties, yet bilateral trade remains far below its true potential. They urged both governments to take practical and strategic steps to unlock new opportunities for economic cooperation and regional connectivity.
The PIBF leadership proposed that the commencement and completion of the Pakistan–Iran Gas Pipeline Project be treated as a priority initiative, as it would help meet Pakistan’s energy needs while promoting long-term economic collaboration between the two countries.
The letter also called for the restoration and expansion of the Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul (ITI) Cargo Train Service, noting that enhanced rail connectivity would facilitate trade, reduce transportation costs and strengthen links between South Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
Dr Mangat and Mr Tanveer further urged the conclusion of a formal agreement for the purchase and import of Iranian petroleum products, stating that such cooperation could provide Pakistan with a reliable and cost-effective energy source while contributing to greater regional economic integration.
The PIBF leaders also proposed establishing structured business cooperation mechanisms and formal agreements between the Pakistani and Iranian business communities. They suggested regular business forums, trade delegations, B2B meetings and institutional linkages to promote investment and commercial partnerships.
In addition, the letter recommended establishing joint border markets along the Pakistan–Iran border to facilitate legal trade, create employment opportunities, support local communities and curb informal trade.
The Forum further proposed the creation of a modern Pakistan–Iran Joint One-Window Industrial Zone in Gwadar, offering streamlined procedures and modern infrastructure to attract investment in manufacturing, logistics, warehousing and export-oriented industries.
In their letter, Dr Mushtaq Mangat and Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer expressed the hope that these proposals would receive serious consideration and serve as the foundation for a new phase of economic cooperation between Pakistan and Iran. They emphasised that stronger commercial ties would benefit both countries and contribute to regional prosperity, connectivity and sustainable growth.
