Iran, Pakistan agree to exchange prisoners

Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar on April 4 discussed the possibility of releasing 60 Iranian prisoners in Pakistani jails with a visiting delegation from Tehran in response to its offer of letting 160 Pakistani nationals free from Iranian prisons.

The discussion between the two countries over the issue highlights a broader regional concern where individuals travelling across borders for work are often detained and imprisoned for minor offences, Arab News reports.

The latest conversation between the officials of both states regarding the release of these detainees reflects a potential shift toward more compassionate treatment of such individuals that can address the humanitarian concerns of families affected by such detentions.

According to a statement released by Pakistan’s law ministry, Tarar discussed the possibility of prisoner release on humanitarian grounds by both countries with Iranian Deputy Justice Minister for Human Rights and International Affairs Dr. Askar Galailan.

“The Law Minister welcomed the proposal with open heart and assured all possible cooperation from his side,” the statement informed. “[He said] steps must be taken with the support of Ministry of Interior for those who are not involved in any [serious] crime.”

The statement said the total number of Iranian and Pakistani prisoners was shared by the visiting delegation from Tehran.

The two sides also agreed to provide travel and business facilities to improve tourism and trade relations between the two states.

Pakistan and Iran have sought to bolster bilateral trade and foster economic cooperation by establishing border markets in recent months, aiming to facilitate local commerce and strengthen cross-border ties.