Iran and Pakistan Strengthen Strategic Defense Ties with Joint Weapon Development
According to defense observers, the remarks made by Iran’s Chief of Staff Major General Mohammad Hossein Bageri reflect the desire of the neighboring nations to bolster defense cooperation in addressing contemporary security and defense challenges.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – During his recent visit to Islamabad, Iran’s Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Major General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, reiterated his country’s intention to strengthen strategic ties with Pakistan through joint development of defense assets.
Bagheri’s statement, reported by Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, came shortly after his meeting with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir.
According to defense observers, the remarks made by Iran’s Chief of Staff reflect the desire of the neighboring nations to bolster defense cooperation in addressing contemporary security and defense challenges.
During his discussions with Asim Munir, General Bagheri emphasized the importance of close collaboration and intelligence sharing to combat terrorist groups operating along their shared border.
He commended Pakistan’s efforts in fighting the terrorist group known as Jaish al-Adl and stressed the significance of joint border patrols and military exercises to improve security in sensitive regions such as Sistan and Balochistan.
Military cooperation between Iran and Pakistan extends beyond counterterrorism.
“We have witnessed significant events in the region over the past year, where Iran and Pakistan, as two Islamic countries, are located in the sensitive areas of West and South Asia,” said General Bagheri.
“The relations between the Iranian and Pakistani armed forces have been developing, and we have reached several good agreements,” he added.
General Bagheri also proposed joint naval exercises to enhance maritime security and demonstrate regional influence.
He highlighted the importance of strategic alignment among major Islamic nations, including Iran, Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, to promote regional stability and address complex political and security challenges.
This approach underscores the need for greater solidarity among these countries to tackle regional geopolitical issues more effectively.
General Bagheri’s visit to Islamabad reinforces the longstanding history of bilateral defense cooperation between Iran and Pakistan.
Similar discussions in 2018 led to commitments to develop joint defense projects.
Agreements signed by Iran’s Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami and Pakistan’s Defense Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain included enhancing military training, intelligence sharing, and border security.
While these efforts have faced challenges due to international pressures, they reflect both nations’ consistent efforts to strengthen their collaboration.
During his visit, General Bagheri also met with Pakistan’s President, Asif Ali Zardari, to discuss ways to deepen strategic cooperation.
The discussions highlighted the two nations’ commitment to addressing border-related challenges, including armed groups and ongoing security threats.
This pragmatic approach demonstrates a shared intent to resolve immediate issues while laying the foundation for sustainable collaboration.
The visit marked General Bagheri’s third trip to Pakistan, following his previous visits in July 2018 and October 2021.
Last year, General Munir made an official visit to Tehran, where he met with General Bagheri and other Iranian military and civilian officials.
— DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA
