Deputy Director of Islamic Republic of Iran’s broadcasting (IRIB) for Radio has met with Director General of the Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) Murtaza Solangi to discuss ways of expanding bilateral interaction.

During the Wednesday (January 18) meeting, Soufi hailed the visit by the Pakistani official, the vice President of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU), as a rare opportunity to boost cooperation between IRIB and PBC.

He said the two the neighboring countries share a great deal in common as “Muslim, friend and brother” nations.

During the meeting, Soufi elaborated on the Iranian domestic and international radio networks.

According to the official, there are currently more than 20 national radio networks broadcast across the country, including “Radio Iran,” which can also be accessed through the satellite from abroad.

Others include “Radio Payam” broadcasting social, ethical and political messages every 15 minutes; and Radio Ava,” which broadcast various types of music, ranging from folk to pop songs, to instrumental pieces.

The PBC chief, for his turn, appreciated the Iranian officials’ warm reception and highlighted the common points between the two nations as what can push the two countries even closer.

Solangi hailed the progress and development Iran has made in the field of broadcasting in the three decades after the Islamic Revolution of 1979, and praised the role of women in Iran’s broadcasting sector.

He expressed hope that IRIB would share its experience and know-how with the Pakistani side and called for the implementation of the agreements and memoranda of understanding between the countries’ broadcasting institutions.

The PBC official said Pakistan has 64 state-run radio networks broadcasting in 33 languages and dialects, including 22 for inside Pakistan and 11 for international broadcast. He said 14 radio networks are also broadcast through the internet.

The deputy IRIB director welcomed Soalngi’s call for cooperation and called for the formation of joints working groups for the execution of the existing agreements.

Soufi said IRIB would allocate a section to the PBC in the 12th International Radio Festival scheduled for Ordibehesht 1391 (April 20–May 20 2012) in Zibakenar, northern province of Gilan.