TEHRAN- Pakistan's commerce minister, has reaffirmed the nation's dedication to boosting bilateral trade with Iran and other regional allies through the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). 

In an interview with the Iranian media, on the eve of the 23rd meeting of the SCO's trade and economic affairs ministers, which Pakistan will host, Jam Kamal Khan shared insights into the country's trade initiatives. 

He announced plans for a forthcoming trade delegation to Iran, highlighting Pakistan's commitment to pursuing trade relations with Iran and regional partners through non-sanctioned avenues within the SCO framework. 

Kamal Khan emphasized the significance of the upcoming SCO meeting in Pakistan, which will see participation from key delegations of member states, and noted, “The strong representation from countries such as China, Russia, and Iran presents an excellent opportunity to identify new avenues for regional collaboration and to share effective strategies in trade and economic matters.”

Kamal Khan stated, “Pakistan anticipates productive and close collaboration with the new Iranian government. We are committed to enhancing business cooperation at both bilateral and regional levels. In this context, we are exploring various solutions, particularly for non-sanctioned trade routes under the SCO.”

Pakistan's minister of commerce also confirmed that the visit of the Pakistani delegation to Iran remains a priority. 

Kamal Khan mentioned, “Trade committees are actively engaged at high levels between the two nations.” 

He also expressed confidence that significant discussions with Iranian officials will take place during the SCO trade ministers' meeting in Islamabad, focusing on bilateral trade and economic relations, including the utilization of border markets.

The 23rd Meeting of the Trade and Economic Affairs Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) provides a vital forum for member states to engage in discussions regarding economic and trade collaboration under the SCO framework. 

This meeting emphasized the enhancement of trade relationships, the optimization of customs processes, and the promotion of deeper economic partnerships among member nations. The ministers shared insights on various topics, including the facilitation of trade in goods and services, the encouragement of investment, and the execution of SCO economic initiatives.

The gathering of SCO Trade and Economic Affairs Ministers is crucial for progressing the regional economic agenda and fostering sustainable development throughout the SCO area.

Iran and Pakistan are key participants in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.