ISLAMABAD - Pakistan and Iran yesterday agreed for joint efforts against the rising Islamophobia and to show a common resolve against xenophobia, intolerance and incitement to violence on the basis of religion or belief.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi called on Iranian President Dr Hassan Rouhani in Tehran to discuss the issues of bilateral interest, said a foreign ministry statement issued here after the meeting.

“While discussing rising Islamophobia, Foreign Minister Qureshi appreciated convergence between Pakistan and Iran to show a common resolve against xenophobia, intolerance and incitement to violence on the basis of religion or belief,” said the foreign ministry statement. The agreement to cooperate comes at a critical time as Prime Minister Imran Khan has urged the whole Muslim world to join hands against the anti-Islam elements.

Prime Minster Khan believes that a collective message will prove effective and prove that the Muslims were united over the issue of faith.

Foreign Minister Qureshi discussed with President Dr. Rouhani the ways and means to strengthen close bilateral relations, rooted in shared history, culture, faith and language.

He underlined Prime Minister Imran Khan’s vision to strengthen ties with Iran in diverse field with emphasis on expanding mutually beneficial economic cooperation and development. The Foreign Minister thanked President Rouhani for support to the Prime Minister’s initiative to establish border markets, which would benefit people in the border region. 

Qureshi expressed gratitude for Iran’s consistent support to the Kashmiri people, especially from the Supreme Leader.

Foreign Minister Qureshi also called on Speaker of Iranian Parliament Muhammad Bagher Ghalibaf. During the meeting, the Foreign Minister highlighted excellent Pakistan-Iran bilateral relations, and reiterated commitment to further strengthen fraternal ties. Referring to the parliamentary cooperation, the Foreign Minister emphasized frequent exchanges to develop common understanding on various issues. He also underlined the need for enhancing coordination at international parliamentary fora.

Qureshi apprised the Speaker about the grave human rights violations in held Kashmir and appreciated the support of the Iranian leadership to the Kashmiri people.

Highlighting the rise of Islamophobia, Foreign Minister Qureshi remarked that such cases imperil future prospects of peace and harmony among civilizations.