Cross-border terrorism: Pakistan, Iran appoint border liaison officers

ISLAMABAD: After Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s recent visit, there has been further progress in relations between the two countries.

According to sources, Pakistan and Iran have joined hands against the common challenge of terrorism. Work on a Pakistan-Iran mutual security agreement is also in progress and the appointment of liaison officers has started.

Diplomatic sources say that the two countries have appointed liaison officers for counter-terrorism on the Pakistan-Iran border. This week, the liaison officers of Pakistan and Iran will take charge of their respective positions. Both officers hold the rank of colonel in their respective armies. According to sources, the Pakistan Army liaison officer will be posted in Zahedan, Iran, while Iranian IRGC liaison officer will be posted in Turbat, Balochistan. The appointment of the officers was decided during the visit of Iranian foreign minister to Pakistan on January 29.

Diplomatic sources said that the two countries will sign a security agreement to promote cooperation against terrorism and the Ministry of Interior of both countries is working to finalise it. The agreement also includes intelligence exchange and mutual assistance on counter-terrorism. Diplomatic sources say that both countries are considering banning terrorist organizations active against each other.

Pakistan-China-Iran mutual anti-terrorism talks will also be held soon and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is expected to pay an important visit to Iran in the coming months.