Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif arrived in Tehran on May 26, as part of a six-day regional tour that also includes Turkey, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan.

He was formally welcomed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the historic Saadabad Palace, the Iranian Presidential website reported.

The two leaders presided over a joint session of high-ranking delegations before addressing a joint press conference.

Pezeshkian underscored the deep historical, cultural and civilisational bonds between Iran and Pakistan, stressing the need to expand bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including border security.

"We believe that the common borders of Iran and Pakistan should be free of any insecurity and the presence of terrorist groups," Pezeshkian stated. "In this context, the two countries have a serious will to promote security and confront destabilising factors."

The Iranian President reiterated Iran's commitment to regional stability, prosperity and tranquillity, particularly for the people of Pakistan, which he considers a supreme interest for Iran.

He called for friendly relations with all neighbours and an expansion of regional dialogue, asserting that the West and South Asia regions are in greater need of peace and security than ever before.

For this purpose, he highlighted the necessity of positive consultation and interaction with neighbouring countries and international partners.

Prime Minister Sharif reciprocated the warm sentiments, stating: "Iran is our second home and we are deeply thankful to you for the warm welcome."

He stressed that the two neighbouring countries should be able to reach agreements on various areas of cooperation, including trade and investment.

On the broader issue of regional stability, Sharif affirmed Pakistan's dedication to peace and resolving issues through dialogue, including in the conflict with India.

India and Pakistan exchanged fire earlier in May following a deadly attack in Pahalgam, India-administered Kashmir, on April 22, which killed 25 Indian citizens. A ceasefire was ultimately agreed upon on May 10.

Sharif said Pakistan is ready to talk to India for peace on a variety of issues, including water, trade, counter-terrorism and other issues, provided they are serious.