According to a report by the Public Relations and International Affairs Department of the Chabahar Free Zone Organization, Morad Nemati Zargaran, the Commercial Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Pakistan, made these remarks during an online consultative and synergy-building meeting with Iranian commercial attachés in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Oman. Referring to the longstanding relations and extensive economic capacities between Iran and Pakistan, he stated: "Expanding bilateral trade to the $10 billion level targeted by senior officials of Iran and Pakistan requires the maximum utilization of border, port, and regional capacities, particularly the Chabahar Free Zone."
He added: "The Rimdan–Gabd border can become one of the most important axes for the development of Iran-Pakistan trade, and accelerating the establishment of a joint Iran-Pakistan free zone in this border region (Rimdan-Gabd) will play a significant role in increasing trade exchanges, attracting investment, and developing economic cooperation between the two countries."
Nemati Zargaran, referring to the strategic position of the Rimdan Separate Zone of the Chabahar Free Zone, stated: "This zone is not merely a border crossing point between Iran and Pakistan; it is also a gateway to the approximately 250-million-strong Pakistani market and serves as an effective communication route from this country to Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and the Central Asian states."
He continued: "In addition to expanding exports and imports between Iran and Pakistan, the transit capacity of Pakistani goods to Afghanistan and Uzbekistan through the Rimdan Separate zone of the Chabahar Free Zone can contribute to the activation of new regional corridors and increase Iran's share of regional trade." He further referenced the Memorandum of Understanding signed for the establishment of a joint free zone between the two countries at the Rimdan-Gabd border, declaring it "a highly significant variable for the comprehensive development of mutual economic cooperation, joint production, and re-export to global markets through Pakistan."
Positive Reflection of the Chabahar Free Zone Delegation's Visit to Pakistan
The Commercial Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Pakistan, referring to the recent visit of a Chabahar Free Zone Organization delegation to Gwadar and Karachi, stated: "This visit was well received by government officials, economic institutions, and private sector activists in Pakistan and garnered positive coverage in the country's media."
He added: "This visit provided a basis for a deeper understanding of the capacities of the Chabahar port and free zone, particularly the Rimdan Separate Zone, fostered communication among economic activists of the two countries, and explored new opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, and transport."
Nemati Zargaran, noting the presence and investment of Pakistani economic activists in the Chabahar Free Zone, said: "Pakistani investors are present in various commercial and manufacturing sectors within the Chabahar Free Zone. In the food industry, including rice processing and packaging, as well as the plastics industry, they are considered major investors in this region."
He emphasized: "The presence of Pakistani investors in the Chabahar Free Zone demonstrates the private sector's confidence in the economic capacities of this region. Accordingly, by streamlining investment processes, the ground must be prepared for their broader participation in export-oriented production and industrial projects."
The Role of the Commercial Attaché in the Economic Linkage of Chabahar and Pakistan
The Commercial Attaché of Iran in Pakistan noted: "One of the primary missions of the Commercial Attaché's office is to establish effective communication among economic activists, introduce investment capacities, and remove barriers to the development of trade between the two countries. In this regard, the Chabahar Free Zone and the Rimdan Separate Zone hold particular significance."
He added: "Given Chabahar's geographical location, proximity to Pakistan, and access to open waters, this region can serve as a joint platform for Iran-Pakistan economic cooperation and a connection route between the markets of South Asia and Central Asia."
Nemati Zargaran emphasized: "The development of Rimdan–Gabd border infrastructure, the establishment of a joint free zone, the facilitation of commercial processes, and the strengthening of private sector cooperation are among the most essential requirements for achieving long-term economic goals between Iran and Pakistan."
In conclusion, he stressed: "Synergy among the Chabahar Free Zone Organization, the Trade Promotion Organization of Iran, the Commercial Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Pakistan, and economic activists from both countries can pave the way for a new chapter in trade, investment, and transit cooperation in the region."
