Iran and Pakistan have reiterated their determination to strengthen military and defense cooperation amid mounting terrorist attacks on common border areas.

According to The Iran Project, Iran’s Deputy Defense Minister Brigadier General Hojjatollah Qoreishi, who is on an official visit to Pakistan at the head of a delegation, met with the country’s Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif in Islamabad on Friday.

The sides expressed satisfaction over existing collaboration between Iran and Pakistan and urged extensive cooperation in areas of common interest, IRNA reported.

The Pakistani defense minister said both countries enjoy cordial and fraternal ties, nourished by centuries-old religious and cultural affinities.

He added that Pakistan is grateful for Iran’s Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei’s firm and unwavering support for the oppressed nations.

Qoreishi and his entourage also held a meeting with Pakistani Secretary Defense Lt Gen Muhammad Ali HI in the city of Rawalpindi.

The sides discussed issues of common interest and stressed the importance of improving cooperation in the fields of defense, border management and the fight against terrorism.

The talks were held in a positive atmosphere and the two countries’ officials reiterated their commitment to strengthen close cooperation, IRNA quoted Pakistani Defense Ministry as saying.

The Iranian defense official also met with chief of the Air Staff and deputy chief of the Naval Staff.