Pakistani CM-in-Waiting Stresses Further Strengthening Of Iran-Pakistan Ties

Islamabad, May 27, IRNA -- Chief minister-in-waiting of eastern Punjab province Shahbaz Sharif on Sunday called Iran a sincere friend of Pakistan, underlining the need to further promote mutual economic, trade and industrial ties. Sharif expressed these views while talking to Iranˈs Ambassador to Pakistan, Ali Reza Haghighian who met him at his residence in Lahore. Sharif is expected to be the next chief minister of Punjab province after his party emerged victorious in the May 11 elections. The Pakistan Muslim League –Nawaz (PML-N) is leading in the provincial assembly with a two-third majority. During the meeting, views were also exchanged over Pakistan-Iranian relations, regional situation and other matters concerning interest of the two leaders. In the meeting with Haghighian, Shahbaz Sharif said that Pakistan and Iran enjoy a strong bond of love and affection and that Iran has always always supported his country in every hour of trial. Haghighian congratulated Sharif on the success of his party in May 11 general election. Both the officials discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties./end