President of Iran Dr Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi was conferred with an honorary doctorate by the University of Karachi on Tuesday.
The celebration saw the convergence of significant luminaries like Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori and Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah alongside a cohort of state MPs, municipal authorities, and academic members from the University of Karachi.
Vice-Chancellor Khalid Mehmood Iraqi, in his remarks, revealed that the renowned distinction was given to President Raisi in celebration of his extraordinary academic accomplishments and significant contributions to jurisprudence and law.
The University of Karachi, known for its academic supremacy for over 73 years, is a light of intellectual power in the area, attracting students not only from Pakistan but also from Iran and other countries.
The occasion also served as a venue for a constructive interaction between President Raisi and Governor Tessori, when subjects of mutual interest were debated.
Both presidents highlighted their commitment to expanding cultural connections between Iran and Pakistan, stressing the historical affinity and shared ideals between the two nations.
Governor Tessori, reflecting on Pakistan-Iran’s long-standing diplomatic relations, praised the honorary degree as a testimonial to his deep regard and admiration for President Raisi.
He outlined a vision of developing exemplary ties among Muslim states, emphasizing his strong desire to strengthen the relationship between Iran and Pakistan.
Governor Tessori emphasized the economic potential and extended an invitation to Iranian businesses, praising Sindh’s favourable investment climate and repeating his commitment to fostering bilateral commerce and collaboration.
Ebrahim Raisi touches down in Karachi.
After departing from Lahore, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi arrived in Karachi on the second day of his three-day official visit to Pakistan.
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori and Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah greeted President Raisi, who was joined by important people including as Aseefa Bhutto, Azra Pechuho, Sharjeel Memon, and Nasir Shah.
The Iranian president also made a visit to Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, at his tomb (Mazar-i-Quaid), among the aforementioned personalities. Meanwhile, the visiting dignitary lay a floral wreath at the Mazar, offered Fateha, and praised Pakistan’s great leader for his leadership abilities.
This is the first visit by a foreign head of state since the new administration took office following the February 8 elections.
Karachi’s security measures have been dramatically increased, with key thoroughfares restricted to traffic and Section 144 strictly enforced. Drone camera use has been prohibited, and cell networks are suffering intermittent outages in some regions.
Furthermore, the Iranian President is set to receive an honorary degree from the Governor of Sindh, as well as talks with dignitaries at the Governor’s House.
Both tracks of Shaara Faisal, a critical artery of Karachi’s transportation network, have been fully closed, disrupting traffic from Jinnah Airport to Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC), as well as routes from Shaara Faisal to Shaara Quaideen and Gurumandir.
Furthermore, all gas outlets along Shaara Faisal have been closed, and banners congratulating President Raisi line the thoroughfares and adjoining streets.
President of Iran feels sense of familiarity’ in Pakistan
President Raisi enters his comments into the visitor’s book. Iranian President Dr. Ebrahim Raisi stated on Tuesday that he had a “sense of familiarity” in Pakistan.
According to reports, Iranian President Dr. Ebrahim Raisi paid a visit to the shrine of poet and philosopher Allama Iqbal. President Raisi was greeted with a guard of honor upon his arrival to Iqbal’s mausoleum.
On this occasion, the Iranian president was briefed. President Raisi placed a wreath at Iqbal’s tomb and offered fateha. The Badshahi Masjid Khatib Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad Mosque offered prayers.
The Iranian president acknowledged Pakistan’s participation in the core foundations governing Gaza. President Raisi made it clear that Pakistan has no sense of foreignness.
He expressed confidence that relations between the two countries will strengthen over time. Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi recognized Allama Iqbal’s advice for the Muslim world. President Raisi paid respect to Iqbal and signed the guest book.
Maria Ghanchi