Iran and Pakistan share a long, multifaceted relationship shaped by geography, religion, culture, and shifting global politics. With a 900-kilometer shared border and centuries of cultural exchange, the two Muslim-majority neighbors have both common interests and underlying tensions. In recent years, as regional dynamics shift and global power balances realign, Iran-Pakistan relations are growing stronger, particularly in trade, security cooperation, and regional diplomacy.
1. Historical and Diplomatic Ties
Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan after its independence in 1947, marking a strong beginning to their bilateral ties. Despite some periods of tension — especially due to Pakistan's close ties with Saudi Arabia and the United States — the two countries have maintained diplomatic engagement and mutual respect.
Pakistan has often played a balancing role between Iran and Gulf nations, and both countries have used diplomacy to avoid open conflict even during difficult times.
2. Border Security and Military Cooperation
The Iran-Pakistan border has long been a sensitive area due to smuggling, separatist insurgencies, and militant groups. However, in recent years both governments have intensified efforts to manage border issues together.
Key developments:
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Joint patrols and fencing along the border to combat terrorism and illegal trafficking.
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Intelligence sharing on militant activity, especially against groups like Jaish al-Adl that operate near the border.
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Establishment of border markets and crossing points to promote peace through economic development.
Military and security ties have strengthened through regular high-level visits between defense officials and discussions on counterterrorism cooperation.
3. Trade and Economic Cooperation
Despite Western sanctions on Iran and a lack of modern banking channels, Pakistan and Iran have actively worked to expand trade.
Exports and Imports:
Iran exports to Pakistan:
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Electricity (especially to Balochistan)
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Oil and gas (formally limited but ongoing through informal channels)
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Petrochemical products
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Fruits, cement, and dry fruits
Pakistan exports to Iran:
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Rice (especially Basmati)
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Meat and livestock
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Textiles
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Surgical goods and sports equipment
Key Trade Initiatives:
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Launch of barter trade agreements to bypass U.S. sanctions.
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Development of joint border markets in border towns like Pishin and Mand.
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Discussions to expand rail and road connectivity, potentially linking Iran's Chabahar Port with Pakistan’s Gwadar Port, aligning with regional connectivity plans.
Despite the potential, trade volume remains underdeveloped — around $2 billion annually — due to sanctions, banking restrictions, and logistical issues. However, both countries aim to raise this significantly.
4. Energy Cooperation
Energy is a vital area of cooperation between the two nations:
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Electricity exports from Iran power large parts of Pakistan’s Balochistan province, especially in areas near the border.
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The proposed Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline, often referred to as the “Peace Pipeline,” was intended to supply Iranian natural gas to Pakistan. Though construction is stalled due to U.S. sanctions and political pressure, both sides have expressed interest in reviving it.
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Iran has offered technical support for refineries and oil storage facilities in Pakistan.
5. Religious and Cultural Relations
Iran and Pakistan share deep religious and cultural ties, especially through their Shia-Sunni Muslim populations.
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Thousands of Pakistani students and clerics study in Iran, especially in Qom.
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Iran supports cultural and language programs, including Persian studies and the promotion of shared heritage.
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Religious pilgrimages between the countries are common, particularly to Iranian Shia holy sites.
Despite occasional sectarian tensions within Pakistan, Iran and Pakistan have worked diplomatically to prevent religious disputes from affecting bilateral relations.
6. Geopolitical and Regional Dynamics
Iran and Pakistan often find themselves on opposite sides of regional alliances — with Pakistan aligned closely with Saudi Arabia and Iran tied to Syria, Hezbollah, and other Shia groups. However, both countries have avoided direct confrontation and instead focused on shared interests like:
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Stability in Afghanistan post-U.S. withdrawal
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Opposition to foreign military interventions in the region
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Regional connectivity, including cooperation with China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
Pakistan has also supported Iran’s inclusion in regional platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and voiced support for diplomatic solutions to Iran's nuclear issue.
7. Recent Developments
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In May 2023, Pakistan and Iran inaugurated the Mand-Pishin border market, one of six planned to boost trade and reduce border tensions.
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High-level visits between President Ebrahim Raisi and Pakistani leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to stronger ties.
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Both countries agreed to enhance counterterrorism cooperation following cross-border militant attacks in early 2024.
Conclusion
Iran-Pakistan relations are grounded in shared history and mutual interests but shaped by modern-day complexities. While geopolitical alliances and global sanctions have created challenges, the two countries continue to deepen their partnership through trade, security collaboration, and diplomatic coordination.
As regional dynamics evolve and the world moves toward multipolarity, the Iran-Pakistan relationship may emerge as a key factor in the stability and development of South and Central Asia. Both nations seem committed to building a cooperative future, based on pragmatism, regional connectivity, and respect for sovereignty.