TEHRAN- Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has sent a congratulatory message to Asif Ali Zardari on his election as the new President of Pakistan and expressed hope that relations between the two countries, which have historical, cultural and religious history, will be further developed and deepened during his presidency.

On Sunday, Raisi stated that “Iran, as always and especially in the new era, is ready to develop relations with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.”

He also described Pakistan as a brother and friend of Iran, saying, “The Islamic Republic of Iran is prepared to promote relations with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan as ever, particularly during the new term.”

On Saturday, Pakistan Peoples Party’s co-chairperson Asif Ali Zardari won a second term as president, supported by the ruling coalition in a vote by parliament and regional assemblies.

Zardari, 68, previously took the presidential office post in 2008 after a sympathy vote following the gun and bomb assassination of his wife Benazir Bhutto when she was campaigning for re-election.

Last week, in an official statement, the Iranian president extended warm congratulations to Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on his recent election as the new Prime Minister of Pakistan.

Emphasizing Iran’s proactive stance, Raisi highlighted a commitment to strengthening and enriching all dimensions of bilateral relations with Pakistan, aligning with its established policy.

Within his congratulatory message, Raisi expressed unwavering confidence in the potential for both nations to intensify their efforts, leveraging deep historical and cultural ties to fortify and broaden cooperation. He reiterated Iran's readiness to elevate and deepen all facets of bilateral relations with Pakistan, reconfirming this commitment as part of its standard policy.

Raisi also extended his best wishes for the success of the new Pakistani government, expressing optimism about its role in fostering the growth and prosperity of Pakistan. Additionally, he offered heartfelt prayers for the well-being and happiness of the Pakistani nation.

They also held a phone call on Monday, expressing optimism about further collaboration across various areas of shared interest.

Raisi underscored that ties between Tehran and Islamabad extend beyond mere neighborliness as they are deeply rooted in historical and cultural connections. He warmly welcomed the prospect of advancing bilateral, regional, and international interactions in Pakistan. 

The president’s remarks align with Iran’s overarching policy to strengthen and deepen ties with neighboring countries and fellow Muslim nations.

Moreover, Raisi expressed hope for the new Pakistani government to take substantial steps toward the progress and development of the country.

In response, Sharif expressed gratitude for Iran’s congratulatory message, echoing sentiments of hope for the continued growth of bilateral ties. 

He highlighted the profound friendship between the two nations and conveyed confidence in effective collaboration between Iran and Pakistan to safeguard mutual interests.

It's noteworthy that this diplomatic exchange follows a recent period of strained relations between Iran and Pakistan, after Iran targeted two main bases of the so-called Jaish ul-Adl terrorist group in Pakistan's southwestern province of Balochistan and the latter responded by striking Iranian positions near the border. Islamabad said it had struck the residence of Pakistani separatists while Tehran confirmed that no Iranian national was killed during the attack.

Despite these challenges, both nations have demonstrated a commitment to de-escalation, fostering a renewed spirit of cooperation. Officials from both countries expressed respect for their neighbor’s sovereignty and said that they are willing to engage in dialogue to cooperate for a more intense fight against terrorism.