Pakistan and Iran have agreed to introduce round-the-clock border operations to increase bilateral trade. The decision was made on Wednesday during a meeting between Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and an Iranian delegation led by Minister of Industry, Mines and Trade Mohammad Atabak. The two sides also agreed to improve border infrastructure and logistics and strengthen coordination in customs procedures.

The countries decided to expand cooperation in mining, particularly in processing and adding value to precious gemstones. Sharif said Pakistan would continue diplomatic efforts for regional peace and stability. He expressed hope that joint efforts by both countries could achieve their set target of $10 billion in bilateral trade. He also emphasized expanding trade in food and agricultural products.

Atabak praised Pakistan's hospitality and reiterated Iran's interest in further strengthening economic and commercial ties between the two countries. He said technical-level discussions on a Pakistan-Iran free trade agreement, or FTA, are under way. The reported measures focus on facilitating cross-border commerce through longer operating hours, infrastructure and logistics improvements, and greater customs coordination.