ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division), Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, convened a strategic meeting with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Pakistan, Dr. Reza Amiri Moghaddam, on August 6, 2026, to bolster bilateral cooperation, with a particular focus on the energy sector. The discussion underscored the enduring partnership between the two nations, addressing both immediate infrastructure requirements and long-term economic objectives. As noted in recent high-level diplomatic engagements such as when the Chinese Ambassador Calls on PM Shehbaz Sharif, Delivers President Xi’s Letter, Pakistan continues to seek robust international collaboration to navigate regional economic challenges.

Expanding Cross-Border Energy Infrastructure

Ambassador Dr. Reza Amiri Moghaddam acknowledged the historical support exchanged between the two countries, describing them as neighbors with profound, deep-rooted ties. The Ambassador confirmed that efforts are underway to initiate construction on a second transmission line, with plans to potentially expand the current 100 MW electricity supply arrangement. Emphasizing the value of regional connectivity, the Ambassador announced that Pakistani institutions, including CPPA-G, QESCO, and NGC, will participate in the upcoming Pakistan-Iran Joint Commission in Tehran. He also highlighted potential growth in agricultural trade, while expressing satisfaction with the current mechanism for electricity payments.

Commitment to Energy Stability and Gwadar’s Growth

Minister Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari reaffirmed the importance of these brotherly relations, noting that global conflicts have significantly impacted energy markets, specifically citing rising RLNG costs. Expressing gratitude for Iran’s consistent electricity supply despite regional security constraints, the Minister proposed sending technical experts to Iran to study the resilience of the Iranian power grid. Addressing the strategic development of Gwadar, the Minister stressed that the port city’s growth is contingent upon reliable energy access. He noted that while Iranian electricity imports are essential to the city’s future, Pakistan is actively exploring local generation investments to resolve transmission reliability issues.

Strengthening Strategic Trade and Diplomatic Relations

Looking toward the future, the Minister expressed an interest in two-way electricity trade and renewable energy investments. Ambassador Dr. Reza Amiri Moghaddam lauded the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Somali Defence Minister Calls on Field Marshal Asim Munir at GHQ, stating that their diplomatic efforts have fostered an unprecedented level of mutual trust. The Ambassador projected that bilateral trade could reach approximately USD 4 billion by year-end. He emphasized that despite global maritime disruptions, Iran remains committed to meeting Pakistan’s trade requirements and is keen to utilize Pakistani ports for its own transit trade. Both sides concluded the meeting by pledging to deepen ties across energy, commerce, and connectivity sectors, further aligning their shared regional interests.