A US State Department spokesperson recently highlighted concerns about potential trade between Pakistan and Iran, saying caution is important because of the risk of sanctions.
Responding to a question about the Pakistan-Iran trade agreement, the spokesman said that the United States was one of Pakistan’s biggest export markets. However, he advised caution to those considering a trade deal with Iran, citing the threat of sanctions.
“We advise anyone considering doing business with Iran to be aware of the potential threat of sanctions.”
The press secretary warned against doing business with Tehran, which did not explicitly mention Pakistan in its statement. The spokesperson went on to talk about Islamabad’s trade and economic ties with Washington. According to him, the US is Pakistan’s biggest export market and one of its biggest investors.
We have also been a major investor in Pakistan for the last 20 years. “Pakistan’s economic success is our mutual interest and we look forward to continuing our partnership.”
After President Raisi’s three-day visit to Pakistan and eight bilateral agreements signed by the two countries, the spokesman said relations could be threatened by sanctions because of Iran’s position in the international community.
“We are not reviewing the possibility of sanctions,” the spokesman said.
Pakistan and Iran on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to develop bilateral relations in various sectors, aiming to increase the volume of trade to $10 billion. The agreement was reached during high-level delegation talks held in Islamabad.
The discussion led by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iran’s President Raisi underscored the common vision of developing political, economic, trade and cultural ties between the two countries.
Recently, Iran and Pakistan signed eight memorandums of cooperation in various fields. Prime Minister Shehbaz and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi witnessed the signing ceremony of the Alliance.
The agreement covers animal health and veterinary education, civil litigation and safety issues.
