WANA (Apr 16) – General Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, met with Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf today as part of his official visit to the Islamic Republic.

 

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, said during a meeting with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, that expanding comprehensive relations with neighboring countries remains a constant and strategic policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran. He noted that ties with Pakistan hold particular importance due to the close relations between the two nations and the alignment of their governments’ policies.

 

He stressed that under current regional conditions, enhancing economic and political relations, along with strengthening security cooperation, is more crucial than ever and can contribute to regional stability.

 

Ghalibaf also referred to the Nowruz message of Ayatollah Seyed Mojtaba Khamenei, stating that the leader had given special attention to the government and people of Pakistan and expressed appreciation for their support of Iran.

 

Highlighting Iran’s regional approach, he said the Islamic Republic seeks comprehensive peace for the entire region. However, he added that achieving this goal depends on a genuine change in behavior by those who initiated conflicts and are now seeking to halt them. According to him, these parties must put an end to their past trust-undermining actions in practice.

 

Ghalibaf further noted that one of the key elements of the initial ceasefire understanding between Iran and the United States, mediated by Pakistan, involves establishing a comprehensive ceasefire across all conflict zones. He emphasized that Lebanon is an integral part of this framework and plays a significant role in advancing sustainable peace in the region.

Pakistan’s Army Chief Meets Iranian Parliament Speaker in Tehran on April 16, 2026. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Pakistan’s Army Chief Meets Iranian Parliament Speaker in Tehran on April 16, 2026. Social media/ WANA News Agency

For his part, General Asim Munir pointed to public reactions in Pakistan to recent developments, stating that the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader led to widespread gatherings and protests across various Pakistani cities.

 

He added that from the very first days of rising tensions, he had ordered that no security incidents should occur along the Iran-Pakistan border, ensuring full stability in the area. Munir also underscored the importance of a ceasefire in Lebanon and affirmed that Pakistan is actively pursuing this issue through continued diplomatic efforts.

 

He concluded by expressing hope to host Iranian officials in Islamabad in the near future to further advance bilateral cooperation and dialogue.

 

The meeting follows the General’s arrival yesterday, where he was welcomed by the Iranian Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi. The two officials held talks prior to his session with the Parliament Speaker.

 

Given Pakistan’s role as a mediator in recent Iran-U.S. negotiations, the discussions are expected to have addressed the current state of negotiations between Iran and the United States.

 

The visit highlights the strategic importance of military and diplomatic coordination between the two neighbors.