The hearts of the Pakistani nation sank in sorrow as news spread of the tragic demise of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian in a helicopter crash. The people of Pakistan share the grief of their Iranian brothers and sisters and stand shoulder to shoulder with them in this hour of immeasurable difficulty. Representing the sentiments of the nation in their condolence messages, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tributes to the Iranian President and Foreign Minister and announced to observe a day of mourning in solidarity with the Iranian people.
President Raisi’s recent visit to Pakistan bore testament to his unwavering commitment to fostering stronger bonds between our two nations. During his stay, pivotal agreements were reached, paving the way for enhanced bilateral relations. His vision extended beyond borders, encompassing neighbouring countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Turkiye and Azerbaijan, reflecting his steadfast dedication to regional cooperation and peace. Beyond his diplomatic endeavours, President Raisi was a towering figure on the global stage, championing the cause of the Muslim Ummah with resolute determination. His unwavering advocacy for the rights of Palestinians and Kashmiris echoed throughout the halls of international diplomacy, earning him widespread admiration and respect. His death is a loss not only to the Iranian people but the whole Muslim Ummah. His potential succession to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s esteemed Supreme Leader, underscored his stature as a leader of unparalleled integrity and foresight. His absence will be keenly felt as we navigate the intricate landscape of regional geopolitics. As the loss of President Raisi is being mourned, we have full confidence in the resilience of the Iranian nation. Despite this grievous setback, we trust in the ability of the Iranian people to navigate this transition with fortitude and grace. President Raisi’s legacy as a bold and courageous leader will always be remembered, serving as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
