TEHRAN: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi says it is important for the neighbours of Afghanistan to have continued consultations on the way forward as the peace in Afghanistan would lead to economic and political benefits for the region.

The Foreign minister in his meeting with the Iranian President Seyed Ibrahim Raisi in Tehran today, apprised him on Pakistan's perspective and underlined coordinated approach on the issue of Afghanistan.

The Foreign Minister conveyed heartfelt felicitations to President Seyed Ibrahim Raisi from Pakistani leadership on victory in presidential election and receiving Parliament's endorsement on Cabinet. He reiterated Pakistan's desire to work with Iran in all areas to further strengthen fraternal ties.

Foreign Minister Qureshi thanked the President for Iran's consistent support on Kashmir issue, especially from the Supreme Leader.

Welcoming Foreign Minister Qureshi, President Seyed Ibrahim Raisi recalled excellent bilateral ties between the two countries. He appreciated Foreign Minister's visit for strengthening regional approach in the wake of situation in Afghanistan and expressed hope that Afghanistan would achieve peace and stability.

On the occasion, Foreign Minister Qureshi extended invitation, on behalf of Prime Minister Imran Khan, to the President to visit Pakistan. President Seyed Ibrahim Raisi accepted the invitation.

In a separate meeting with Iranian counterpart Dr Amir Abdullahian, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that a coordinated approach was important for security, stability and inclusive political settlement in Afghanistan.

He said return of peace in Afghanistan would provide impetus to greater economic integration, regional connectivity and facilitate people-to-people linkages.

Dr Amir Abdullahian welcomed Foreign Minister's initiative to advance regional approach on Afghanistan for the mutual benefit of the region.

Reaffirming desire to enhance bilateral relations in all areas, Shah Mahmood Qureshi remarked that Pakistan considers Iran a close neighbour and important country.

In the bilateral context, the Foreign Minister recalled his previous visit to Tehran in April 2021, during which the two countries signed MoU on establishment of Border Sustenance Markets.

Coupled with opening of new border crossing point, he underlined that both the initiatives would improve livelihood of the people in the border region and facilitate movement.

The two Foreign Ministers had extensive discussion on regional security situation. Foreign Minister Qureshi appreciated Iran's steadfast support on Kashmir issue, especially at the highest level.

Foreign Minister Qureshi reiterated invitation to Dr Abdullahian to visit Pakistan.