The 22nd session of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Economic Commission (JEC) concluded on a positive note, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to achieving a $10 billion bilateral trade target. The meeting, held in Tehran, addressed various sectors, including trade, energy, agriculture, transportation, and cultural exchanges.
The Pakistani delegation, led by Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, discussed critical strategies for enhancing cooperation with the Iranian delegation, headed by Minister for Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadeq. Both sides signed several protocols aimed at deepening trade and economic ties.
Key outcomes included agreements to remove tariff and non-tariff barriers, enhance electricity exchanges, and promote transport links such as rail cargo, air navigation, and ferry services for passengers. Additionally, both nations agreed to strengthen collaboration in sectors like agriculture, renewable energy, healthcare, and cultural exchanges.
A major focus of the discussions was the development of transportation infrastructure, including the resumption of a 220 KV transmission line to Gwadar, and cooperation on renewable energy projects. Moreover, Pakistan and Iran agreed to improve cross-border disease surveillance, pharmaceutical registration, and introduce joint training programs in the health sector.
The JEC also discussed creating a Joint Committee on Labour Cooperation to facilitate worker mobility between the two countries, particularly in construction, textiles, and agriculture.
Minister Jam Kamal Khan expressed satisfaction with the progress made during the talks, emphasizing the importance of increasing collaboration across various sectors, including trade, investment, and infrastructure development. He also highlighted the role of people-to-people links and cultural exchange in strengthening the bilateral relationship.
Minister Farzaneh Sadeq welcomed the successful outcome of the session and emphasized Iran’s commitment to enhancing economic ties with Pakistan, particularly through infrastructure development and trade facilitation. She also pointed out the significance of improved transport corridors, which would benefit not only both countries but also the wider region.
The discussions were followed by a Joint Business Forum, held on September 15, 2025, which saw active participation from businesses in both countries. The forum provided a platform for the private sectors of Pakistan and Iran to explore new avenues of cooperation and complement the efforts of their governments.
The session concluded with both sides expressing optimism about continued progress and reinforcing their commitment to working together to overcome challenges and achieve their shared economic goals.
The 23rd session of the JEC is expected to be held in Islamabad, further advancing Pakistan-Iran economic cooperation.
