Ans: Pak-Iran Relations;
1. Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan in 1947. Iran and Pakistan
are Islamic, Asian and neighbouring countries. Both countries are closely
linked with historical, religious and cultural relations.
2. The Prime Minister of Pakistan visited Iran in 1949. Shah of Iran also made a
visit in return to Pakistan in 1950 and trading contacts were established.
With the trade and cultural agreements, Iran and Pakistan felt it necessary to
cooperate in the field of defense.
3. Both the countries developed very good relations with America and
considered Russian Federation a great threat. Pakistan, Iran, Turkey, Iraq
and Britain signed a defense treaty called Baghdad Pact. America was
supporting this pact. After Revolution in 1958, Iraq withdrew and it was
named as CENTO. This defense treaty brought Pakistan and Iran very close
to each other.
4. Iran always gave full support to Pakistan on Kashmir issue and praised its
stance. It has always supported the right of self determination of the people
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of Kashmir in and out of the United Nations. It has always openly opposed
the atrocities of Indian Army against Kashmiri freedom fighters.
5. Iran stood with Pakistan in 1965 and 1971 wars. Its political, moral,
economic and military aid was very encouraging for Pakistan. Iran did not
recognize Bangladesh until Pakistan recognized it.
6. Shah of Iran, Turkish President and President of Pakistan met in 1964 and
Istanbul Treaty was signed. This treaty brought these Islamic countries very
close together. The treaty helped the formation of RCD (Regional
Cooperation Development). The RCD countries decided to complete many
joint ventures. The organization now has been converted into Economic
Cooperation Organization (ECO) with ten members.
7. After the Islamic revolution in 1979, Pakistan had recognised the new
government in Iran and extended cooperation in every field.
8. The President of Pakistan visited Iran in 2000. It was decided to enhance
cooperation in different fields. In 2013, the President of Pakistan visited Iran
again. Pak-Iran gas pipeline project was reviewed during this tour.
9. The Prime Minister of Pakistan visited Iran in 2019. In this visit, during the
meeting between Prime Minister of Pakistan and President of Iran, two
countries agreed to boost security cooperation and set up a Joint Rapid
Reaction Force to fight terrorism and guard the common border between the
two countries
10. Leadership of the both the countries also agreed to further strenthen the bilateral trade and economic ties and to take necessary steps for Pak-Iran
gas pipeline project. By its completion, Pakistan’s energy crisis can be
solved adequately..