PM and Turkish President Vow to Boost Cooperation
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
PM Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday reaffirmed their strong commitment to deepening multifaceted cooperation between Pakistan and Turkiye.
According to the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), PM Shehbaz arrived in Turkiye on a two-day official visit. He held a warm and cordial meeting with President Erdogan, focusing on peace, regional stability, and mutual prosperity.
Reinforcing Historic Friendship
The leaders acknowledged the historic and brotherly relationship between the two nations, built on shared values, respect, and a mutual vision for progress. PM Shehbaz, accompanied by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, thanked Turkiye for its steadfast support amid recent South Asian developments.
He praised Turkiye’s principled stance and the goodwill of the Turkish people, calling it a source of great comfort and strength for Pakistan.
Highlighting National Unity and Defense
PM Shehbaz lauded the courage and sacrifice of Pakistan’s Armed Forces and the patriotism of its citizens. He noted their role in achieving decisive victories in Marak-e-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, defending Pakistan’s sovereignty.
Boosting Economic Cooperation
He emphasized the need to increase economic collaboration through joint ventures and greater bilateral investments. Key sectors of interest included renewable energy, IT, defense production, infrastructure, and agriculture.
Strategic Roadmap and Future Goals
The two leaders conducted a thorough review of Pakistan-Turkiye relations. They agreed to elevate their strategic partnership and implement outcomes from the 7th High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), held in Islamabad on 13 February 2025.
Both sides committed to achieving the $5 billion annual trade target agreed upon during previous discussions.
Shared Positions on Global Issues
In addition to bilateral matters, the leaders discussed key regional and international developments. They reaffirmed support for each other’s core concerns, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.
They also expressed grave concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Both leaders called for an immediate ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access to affected Palestinians.
Official Delegation and Reception
The Pakistani delegation included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, SAPM Syed Tariq Fatemi, and Ambassador Dr. Yusuf Junaid. President Erdogan hosted a dinner in honor of PM Shehbaz Sharif and his team.
