Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi arrived at the Allama Iqbal International Airport from Islamabad here on Tuesday morning.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz welcomed the Iranian president as he touched down at Lahore airport. Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and Information Minister Azma Zahid Bokhari was also present.
Provincial ministers Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman, Khawaja Salman Rafique, Chaudhry Shafey Hussain, Bilal Yasin, the chief secretary and IG Punjab were also in attendance. A smartly turned out contingent of Punjab Rangers presented guard of honour to President Raisi.
City roads have been decorated with welcome banners and hoardings on arrival of Iranian President. President Raisi, after landing in Lahore, went straight to Mazar-e-Iqbal and laid floral wreath on the grave of Poet of the East Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
Lauds Pakistan's stance on Gaza
The Iranian president lauded Pakistan's support for Gaza and its people amid relentless atrocities by Israel.
During his visit to Lahore, the Iranian president will also visit Minar-e-Pakistan, Badshahi Masjid and Lahore Fort. A lunch will be organised by the chief minister in honour of the Iranian president at the Governor House.
The foreign dignitary will leave for Karachi after meeting Punjab Governor Balighur Rehman. He will be received by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah upon reaching Karachi. Raisi will go to Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi and later meet business community.
Local holiday
Provincial governments of Punjab and Sindh have declared local holidays in Lahore and Karachi on the occasion of Iranian president's visit to both capital cities.
According to the administration's notification, public and private schools, colleges and universities will remain closed today. Public and private offices will also remain closed on the occasion.
