Zarif in Pakistan to pursue fate of abducted Iranian forces

Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has arrived in Islamabad to pursue the fate of the Iranian forces who were abducted by Pakistan-based terrorists near the two countries’ joint border earlier in October.

Upon arrival in the Pakistani capital early Wednesday, Zarif said, “There is need for constant negotiation with Pakistani officials so that the abductees’ return to their homeland can be secured.”

Pakistani officials have promised that their government would exert every effort to secure the release of the kidnapped Iranians, he added.

“Iran and Pakistan are two very good neighbors, and Tehran enjoys good relations with Islamabad. We consult with them on all matters,” the Iranian top diplomat noted.

Zarif is heading a political and military delegation on his visit to Pakistan.

Terrorists with the so-called Jaish ul-Adl terrorist group abducted 12 Iranian forces in the southeastern province of Sistan and Baluchestan, and spirited them away into neighboring Pakistan.

The group later posted two photos of the abductees on its social media channel.