Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi arrived at Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport on Tuesday morning, where he was welcomed by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and other provincial officials. A contingent of Punjab Rangers presented him with a guard of honor. City streets were adorned with banners and hoardings to welcome the visiting dignitary.
Upon his arrival, President Raisi paid his respects at the grave of renowned poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal at Mazar-e-Iqbal. He praised Pakistan's solidarity with Gaza amidst the ongoing conflict, expressing confidence in the eventual victory of the Palestinian people. Raisi highlighted the inspirational legacy of Allama Iqbal and expressed his pleasure at being in Pakistan, stating his desire to address the nation.
During his stay in Lahore, President Raisi is scheduled to visit historic landmarks including Minar-e-Pakistan, Badshahi Masjid, and Lahore Fort. A luncheon will be hosted in his honor by the Chief Minister at the Governor House. After meeting with Punjab Governor Balighur Rehman, Raisi will proceed to Karachi, where he will be received by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. In Karachi, he plans to visit Mazar-e-Quaid and engage with the business community.
To mark the occasion of the Iranian president's visit, local holidays have been declared in Lahore and Karachi by the provincial governments of Punjab and Sindh, respectively. This entails the closure of schools, colleges, universities, and public/private offices for the day, as per official notifications.
