Pakistan cannot put its sovereignty and national interests at stake just for the sake of friendly relations with another country, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Amir Haider Khan Hoti said on Saturday.
“We wanted relations with everyone on the basis of equality. To steer out the region from the challenges and crisis confronting it, the countries of the region should work together,” Hoti said. The bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran based on historical, cultural, trade and religious harmony were inevitable for peace and stability in the region and in the current situation its importance has been increased manifold, he said.
Hoti’s visit to Sheraz and Asfahan on the invitation of Iran was reflective of his inner desire. However, he had to postpone his visit of Iran due to last year’s devastating floods. He expressed these views during a formal meeting with Governor General Dr Zakir Asfahani at Governor House’s Asfahan last night. Welcoming the chief minister and members of his entourage, the Asfahan governor expressed hope that people of both countries will benefit from the visit.
He also highlighted in detail the geo-historical background of Asfahan and struggle of Iranians during various ups and downs. Reciprocating the Iranian leader’s sentiments, Hoti assured him that his visit will prove a launching pad and bilateral visits of delegations to give practical shape to the bilateral relations in a phased manner.
The chief minister spell out in detail the resources and potentials available in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa which can appropriately be explored through Iranian investment.