ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, announced the revival of major border markets with Iran, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral trade ties.
Speaking at the Pakistan-Iran Business Forum on Sunday, Khan highlighted the recent reopening of the Mand-Pishin border market on July 30 and confirmed that additional border points, including Chaghi-Kuhak and Gabd-Rimdan, would be reactivated soon.
He emphasized that these developments would significantly benefit communities residing near the border.
Welcoming the Iranian delegation, Khan praised the historic brotherhood between the two nations and acknowledged the economic dependency of Balochistan’s people on cross-border trade.
He stressed the urgency of implementing the barter trade system and eliminating non-tariff trade barriers to boost economic engagement.
He also announced the finalization of the Pakistan-Iran Free Trade Agreement, which is expected to lead to a substantial increase in trade volumes.
He noted that the private sector has a key role in reaching the $10 billion trade target. Improved customs coordination and trade infrastructure will further facilitate smooth transactions between the two countries.
Khan pointed to promising areas for collaboration such as agriculture, mining, and energy, inviting Iranian companies to invest and form joint ventures in Pakistan.
Calling the business forum a “symbol of friendship,” he encouraged Iranian entrepreneurs to explore Pakistan’s investment potential, marking what he described as a new chapter in economic cooperation.
He expressed gratitude for the participation of the Iranian President, calling it a positive sign, and announced the upcoming meeting of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Economic Commission to further strengthen trade links.
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Iranian Commerce Minister Mohammad Atabak also spoke at the event, which was attended by key leaders from both nations, including Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar.