Islamabad, July 30, 2025 — The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) held a high-level bilateral dialogue with Iran’s Institute for Iran and Eurasia Studies (IRAS) on the theme: “Iran-Pakistan Relations in the Context of New Regional Developments.”
Moderated by Ms. Amina Khan, Director of ISSI’s Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East & Africa (CAMEA), the event featured prominent experts and diplomats including Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI; Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman Board of Governors ISSI; Dr. Seyyed Rasoul Moosavi, former Director General for Southern Asia at Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ambassador Riffat Masood, former Ambassador of Pakistan to Iran; and Dr. Somaye Morovati, Head of the South Asia Group at Tehran’s CMESS.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood provided a comprehensive assessment of emerging global and regional transformations, highlighting rising instability, the breakdown of international norms, and the increasing use of force in international affairs. He emphasized the need to uphold multilateralism and peacefully resolve disputes, noting that the shift toward multipolarity presents an opportunity for Pakistan and Iran to contribute to a more just and equitable international order.
He discussed the global repercussions of the Iran-Israel standoff, the genocide in Gaza, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, stressing the urgency of cooperation grounded in international law and the UN Charter. Welcoming the upcoming state visit of the Iranian President to Pakistan, he called for deeper collaboration in trade, energy, regional security, and especially coordinated efforts on Afghanistan for mutual stability and connectivity.
Other speakers echoed the importance of Pakistan–Iran relations, underscoring the shared history, geographical proximity, and mutual interests. Discussions focused on joint counterterrorism strategies, intelligence sharing, and the revival of trilateral mechanisms to address cross-border threats.
Participants emphasized the need for a strategic regional dialogue, particularly in light of the Iranian President’s impending visit, and reaffirmed support for legitimate causes like the Palestinian struggle. The dialogue concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation in a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape.
