Iranian Security Official Ali Larijani Concludes High-Level Talks in Pakistan on Economic and Regional Cooperation

High-Level Iranian Delegation Visits Islamabad for Strategic Dialogue

Ali Ardeshir Larijani, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), concluded a two-day official visit to Islamabad, Pakistan, on November 26, 2025. The high-profile visit aimed to deepen economic cooperation and coordinate positions on regional and international developments between the two neighboring nations. Larijani engaged in extensive discussions with Pakistan's top civilian and military leadership, underscoring a mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

Focus on Economic Enhancement and Energy Cooperation

A central theme of the talks was the enhancement of economic cooperation, with both sides expressing a desire to achieve a $10 billion trade target. Discussions included exploring avenues for preferential access for Pakistani products in Iran, a directive stemming from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's August visit to Pakistan. A significant point of deliberation was finding a 'mutually workable solution' for the stalled Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, crucial for meeting Pakistan's growing energy requirements. President Asif Ali Zardari highlighted the need to boost trade and improve rail links to facilitate commerce and travel, especially for religious pilgrims.

Coordination on Regional Developments and Security

Larijani's meetings also focused on coordinating efforts regarding regional and international developments, with particular attention given to the Gaza peace plan. While Iran expressed reservations about the UN Security Council-backed plan, fearing potential foreign military involvement, Pakistan has supported the initiative and is seen as a potential contributor to an international stabilization force. Both officials emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to promote peace and stability across the region, addressing shared security concerns and the need for unified responses to emerging challenges. Larijani noted that 'changing conditions in the region require closer collaboration across multiple sectors,' recognizing Pakistan's 'key role' in regional security.

Meetings with Pakistani Leadership and Future Engagements

During his visit, Ali Ardeshir Larijani held separate meetings with a number of key Pakistani officials, including:

• President Asif Ali Zardari
• Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
• National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq
• Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar

He was also scheduled to meet with Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir and National Security Adviser Lt Gen Asim Malik. The Pakistani Prime Minister's Office noted that Sharif and Larijani exchanged views on key regional and international developments, stressing 'the importance of coordinated efforts to promote peace and stability.' Speaker Ayaz Sadiq hailed the recent high-level contacts as an 'important turning point' for bilateral ties. A delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is expected to visit Iran soon to further enhance cooperation, particularly in agriculture and connectivity.