US avoids comment on Pakistan-Iran border trade deal

ISLAMABAD: In a significant development for Pakistan's commercial relationship with neighbouring Iran, the inauguration of a cross-border marketplace has paved the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation.

While this event unfolded, the United States chose to withhold any commentary on the evolving ties between the two nations.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran convened on Thursday for a meeting following the joint inauguration of the Mand-Pishin border sustenance market.

This step is seen as a concerted effort to bolster trade and strengthen the economic bonds between the two nations.

When questioned about the meeting and the progress in Pakistan-Iran relations, a spokesperson from the US State Department told Geo News: "We are aware of this meeting. We do not have any comment to provide on the engagement."

The United States, however, emphasised the continued importance of its relationship with Islamabad, highlighting that fostering Pakistan's economic growth, ensuring energy security, and promoting environmental sustainability remain paramount within the bilateral ties. These aspects are deemed as the "cornerstone" of the Green Alliance.

As Pakistan and Iran take steps towards deeper collaboration through the inauguration of the cross-border marketplace, the global community observes the unfolding dynamics while the United States maintains a measured stance on the evolving bilateral relationship.