During an official visit to Islamabad, Iran’s Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, reaffirmed Iran’s intent to strengthen strategic relations with Pakistan through the joint production of military equipment. This statement, reported by the Iranian news agency Tasnim News on January 21, 2025, was made during a meeting with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir. The initiative reflects the two countries’ shared ambition to deepen defense cooperation while addressing mutual security challenges.
During the meeting, General Baqeri emphasized the importance of close coordination and enhanced intelligence sharing to combat terrorist groups operating along their shared border. Commending Pakistan’s efforts to counter the group Jaish al-Adl, known in Iran as Jaish al-Dhulm, he stressed the need for coordinated cross-border patrols and joint military exercises to improve security in sensitive areas, such as the Sistan and Baluchestan Province, which remains prone to terrorist activities.
The military collaboration between Iran and Pakistan extends beyond counterterrorism. General Baqeri proposed joint naval exercises to enhance maritime security and demonstrate regional influence. He also highlighted the importance of strategic alignment among key Islamic nations, including Iran, Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, to stabilize the region and address complex political and security challenges. This approach underscores the need for greater solidarity among these actors to respond effectively to regional geopolitical issues.