NEW YORK: Iran has expressed its desire to be part of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Iranian President Dr. Hassan Rouhani held a meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on the sidelines of the 71st UN General Assembly session.

Both sides expressed satisfaction on the positive trajectory of bilateral ties between Pakistan and Iran. Rouhani lauded the vision of Nawaz Sharif for translating CPEC into a reality and expressed his desire to be part of the CPEC.

They noted progress on Iran Pakistan gas pipeline and electricity import from Iran would help overcome Pakistan s energy shortages in the coming years. They shared the view that Gwadar and Chahbahar seaports would be instrumental in further promoting trade in the region.

PM Nawaz apprised President Rouhani of Indian brutalities in Kashmir particularly in the past two months and stressed on the need for building unity and cohesion within the Muslim world. Our culture tradition and economy complement each other and Pakistan is seeking to increase the level of its cooperation with Tehran said Sharif.

Rouhani expressed hope that the economic ties between both countries would strengthen. Iranian President said there is a need for defence cooperation between Iran and Pakistan. Iran has always tried to keep a border of security and friendship with Pakistan and a lot of progress has been in this regard Rouhani said.