Speaking on Wednesday during a meeting in Islamabad with Pakistan’s Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, the Iranian minister highlighted the growing cooperation between the two neighboring countries and emphasized the importance of expanding rail connectivity.
The meeting was attended by Pakistan’s Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the governor of Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan Province, senior Iranian Foreign Ministry officials, and Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan as well.
Momeni said Iran and Pakistan share deep historical and cultural ties, adding that bilateral relations have expanded significantly over the past two years. He also thanked the Pakistani government and people for their support during the recent imposed war against Iran and praised Islamabad’s efforts to promote regional peace.
“The two countries have the potential to expand their cooperation far beyond its current level. Closer synergy could help advance their shared interests, particularly by promoting development and prosperity for people living along their common border,” the Iranian minister said.
He noted that the launch of the ECO container train and the completion of cross-border rail infrastructure would substantially enhance trade and regional connectivity.
The official said that linking Iran’s railway network with Pakistan would benefit both countries by increasing commercial exchanges while also facilitating passenger travel between the neighboring nations.
Momeni announced that the modernization of the Zahedan–Mirjaveh railway line is expected to be completed within a month. He called on Pakistan to complete the standard-gauge railway from Mirjaveh to Taftan to ensure seamless train operations across the border.
He also said the Zahedan–Chabahar railway project is close to completion, adding that an integrated Iran-Pakistan rail network would strengthen transport links connecting South Asia with Central Asia and Europe.
Pakistan’s railways minister welcomed the initiative, saying Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attaches special importance to rail cooperation with Iran. Abbasi added that Pakistan’s Ministry of Railways has established a framework to advance railway projects, including the modernization of the Taftan rail line.
