Twenty Pakistani ships were allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iranian authorities, in a move described as a “harbinger of peace” by Pakistan’s foreign minister.

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi hailed the gesture as a significant improvement in relations between the two countries, which have been strained for months over security concerns.

The Iranian navy had previously stopped Pakistani vessels from passing through the strategic waterway, citing concerns about their cargo and route.

Iran has long been wary of Pakistan’s close ties with other regional powers, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United States.

Despite this, FM Qureshi said the recent easing of restrictions was a “positive sign” that could lead to further cooperation between the two nations in the coming months.