Tehran, Islamabad can cooperate in counter-terrorism efforts: Pakistani DM

In an interview, Khurram Dastgir Khan said that in the field of counter terrorism there is a proper opportunity between Iran and Pakistan as both countries share same interests.

“Since both Pakistan and Iran have great experience in successfully dealing with terrorists so we can begin this cooperation in terms of sharing experiences and this can lead to greater cooperation in future,” he said.

The minister added that Iran as a regional partner, a brotherly country and a neighbor of Pakistan would be enhancing the value of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), particularly since Iran is right near to the port of Gwadar which is the node of CPEC.

“So I think if there is more focus on trade and economic cooperation between the two countries it can bring benefits to both sides particularly in the bordering areas,” Khurram Dastgir Khan added.

The official said poverty in the region could be relieved through new investments that CPEC can bring. “Challenge is before us to do the hard work to take advantage of this opportunity,” he viewed.

Khurram Dastgir Khan added that Pakistan has to reorganize and retool its defense according to the requirements of 21st century.

“The army of Pakistan has gained new experiences in recent military operations against terrorists and we are focusing on creating balance between army, air force and navy to make the defense of Pakistan stronger,” he said.


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