Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Punjab and President of Pakistan Muslim League N, met with Ambassador Dr. Reza Amiri Moghadam from the Islamic Republic of Iranian. They talked about different subjects they share, such as trade, cultural, economic, and social relations between two adjacent countries.
A significant outcome of the meeting was understanding the principle of converting the Pakistan-Iran border from security to economic. This will improve economic cooperation and trade between the two countries. The meeting also looked into prospects for more collaboration in agriculture and livestock. It was agreed that Iran’s importation of meat from Punjab should increase from 40% to 70%, showing a giant leap in trade relations. There were detailed talks about Punjab’s role as a pivot in the agreement to increase bilateral trade to the 10 billion dollar target. They also considered various suggestions for promoting the Persian language within Punjab, further enhancing cultural ties and mutual understanding among regions.
In addition, the Iranian ambassador extended a written invitation to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for an official visit to Iran, thereby indicating a deepening diplomatic relationship. Likewise, the ambassador invited Nawaz Sharif to visit Iran, underscoring the importance of high-level global exchanges.
They took this opportunity to express their heartfelt condolences over the martyrdom of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. They conveyed profound grief at the loss, stating that they feel deeply sorry alongside the saddened people in this tragedy. She recalled her memorable meeting with the late President. Whom she described as having a great personality besides being a good leader.
Dr Reza Amiri Moghadam reciprocated by thanking Pakistan for its support towards his country. When he said that solid friendship existed between our two nations backed up by gestures made by ordinary Pakistanis. In fact, according to him, President Raisi desperately wanted to meet Mr. Nawaz but couldn’t because of a Chinese trip being taken up. However, it doesn’t mean anything less than the extraordinary respect position held by Pakistan as far as Iran is concerned. Therefore, all agreements MOUs signed during President Raisi’s visit will still stand good.
Iranian Ambassador congratulated Maryam Nawaz on her first 100 days as Chief Minister of Punjab. Which, according to him, is a milestone demonstrating effective governance. They agreed further about the cultural ties between the twin cities of Isfahan and Mashhad. Lahore should strengthen its efforts to foster closer relationships, allowing people from different cultural backgrounds to share experiences.
In the meantime, during Eid, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz demonstrated. Her commitment to public service by overseeing the cleanliness arrangements across Punjab. She invited sanitary workers and chief officers to the Chief Minister’s Office to appreciate their excellent work during the festive period. She praised their outstanding performance, awarded them commendations, and admired their dedication. Two sanitary workers presented a pencil portrait to Maryam Nawaz, which was a symbol of their gratitude. Maryam Nawaz distributed certificates of appreciation among the workers and sat among them. Inquiring about their well-being, particularly that of the women sanitary workers.
In her speech, she mentioned that she did not celebrate Eid with her family but chose to supervise. The cleaning operations reflect her dedication to serving the public. She happily expressed her honor in ensuring the cleanliness of Punjab, emphasizing that maintaining cleanliness should be a daily endeavor, not just limited to Eid. She commended the sanitary workers for their hard work, particularly noting their efforts in the extreme heat. Working 20 hours a day over three days. Maryam Nawaz emphasized the importance of keeping the province clean and announced the implementation of a comprehensive waste management system across all districts. Promising to provide the necessary resources to achieve this goal.
