Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s Visit to Pakistan: A Tale of Unfulfilled Promises and Economic Woes
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s recent visit to Pakistan was marked by a mix of pomp and ceremony, high-level diplomacy, and lingering economic frustrations. The visit was aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and promoting economic cooperation between the two neighboring countries. However, the shadow of the stalled Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project loomed large over the proceedings, highlighting the challenges and complexities of the relationship.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Persian-Infused Welcome
In his welcoming address to President Raisi, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif displayed his literary prowess by quoting verses from renowned Iranian poets, including Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Allama Iqbal. He drew parallels between the cultural and historical connections between the two countries, emphasizing the shared values of friendship and mutual respect.
Focus on Economic Cooperation and Trade
The core agenda of the visit revolved around economic cooperation and trade between Iran and Pakistan. Both sides expressed their desire to enhance bilateral trade, which has remained stagnant at around $1 billion per year despite repeated commitments. President Raisi called for increasing trade volume to $10 billion within the next five years.
Eight Memorandums of Understanding Signed
Eight memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed during the visit, covering various areas of cooperation, including energy, commerce, agriculture, and investment. However, these MoUs largely reiterated existing agreements and lacked concrete details on implementation.
The Ghost of the Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline
The much-anticipated Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project remained conspicuously absent from the official discussions. The project, which has been delayed for over a decade due to US sanctions and other hurdles, was once touted as a game-changer for Pakistan’s energy security. However, the lack of progress on the project has raised doubts about its viability.
Pakistan’s Energy Crisis and US Concerns
Pakistan is facing a severe energy crisis, with natural gas reserves rapidly depleting. The Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline was seen as a potential solution to this crisis. However, Pakistan’s reluctance to move forward with the project due to US sanctions has left the country in a precarious position.
India’s Example and Pakistan’s Hesitation
India’s decision to continue importing Russian oil despite US sanctions has been cited as an example for Pakistan to follow. However, Pakistan has been more cautious in its approach, wary of straining its relationship with the United States.
A Missed Opportunity for Pakistan?
Some analysts argue that Pakistan missed an opportunity to leverage its position during the US-Afghanistan war to secure American approval for the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline. However, others point out that the complex geopolitical dynamics and the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel made it difficult for Pakistan to pursue the project aggressively.
Lahore and Karachi Get a Day Off
As a security measure for President Raisi’s visit, Lahore and Karachi were given a day off, causing disruption to business activities and drawing criticism from some quarters.
Conclusion: A Relationship of Unfulfilled Promises
President Raisi’s visit to Pakistan highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two countries. However, the lack of progress on concrete economic initiatives and the lingering issue of the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project left many Pakistanis with a sense of unfulfilled promises. The relationship between Iran and Pakistan remains promising but requires more tangible steps to translate aspirations into reality.
Credit goes to : https://www.bbc.com/urdu/articles/c97zjz3n852o
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