TEHRAN — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's weekend visit to Pakistan marked an effort by Tehran to reposition itself regionally as it faces escalating international pressure, economic turmoil and diplomatic isolation. 

The trip, packed with symbolism and substance, was made in an effort to strengthen political, trade and security ties with a key neighbor, and perhaps to send a message to the West that Iran still has options.

"Pakistan is not just a neighbor but a brotherly nation," Pezeshkian said as he stood next to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at a joint press conference in Islamabad. Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for the Pakistani government's support for Tehran during the June war between Iran and Israel. 

According to Iranian state media, the two governments signed 12 cooperation agreements across a range of sectors, from trade and transport to agriculture, science and judicial affairs. While reports initially suggested a formal free trade agreement was in the offing, the two sides signed a document expressing their intent to finalize such a deal soon.