Pakistan, Turkiye Renew Pledge to Deepen Strategic Partnership

APP

Istanbul:  Pakistan and Turkiye on Sunday reaffirmed their commitment to deepening multifaceted cooperation and elevating their strategic partnership to new heights.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, currently on a two-day official visit to Turkiye, met with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul. The meeting underscored the historic, deep-rooted, and brotherly ties between the two countries—anchored in shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision for regional peace and prosperity.

During what was described as a “warm and cordial” exchange, the two leaders pledged to work closely on regional stability, sustainable development, and economic growth for their respective nations. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir and other senior officials.

Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed profound gratitude to the Turkish leadership and people for their unwavering support to Pakistan during recent developments in South Asia, particularly the Pakistan-India standoff. He praised Turkiye’s principled stance and solidarity, describing it as a source of great strength and comfort.

Highlighting Pakistan’s recent achievements, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the armed forces and the patriotic spirit of the Pakistani people, referencing their “unprecedented courage and commitment” during Marak-e-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.

Both leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, emphasizing the need to enhance economic cooperation through joint ventures and increased bilateral investment. Key areas identified for collaboration include renewable energy, information technology, defence production, infrastructure development, and agriculture.

The leaders followed up on decisions taken during the 7th session of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), held in Islamabad on February 13, 2025. They reiterated their shared goal of achieving USD 5 billion in annual bilateral trade.

In addition to bilateral matters, Prime Minister Shehbaz and President Erdogan discussed pressing regional and global developments. They reaffirmed their support for each other’s core national concerns, including Pakistan’s stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

Both leaders expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and jointly called for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian access to the Palestinian population.

The Pakistani delegation included Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi, and Ambassador to Turkiye Dr. Yusuf Junaid. President Erdogan also hosted a dinner in honour of Prime Minister Shehbaz and the accompanying delegation.

Following the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“Had the honour of meeting my dear brother President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul this evening. Thanked him for his resolute support to Pakistan in the recent Pakistan-India standoff, which resulted in Pakistan’s overwhelming victory. Alhamdolillah!”

He also conveyed the gratitude of the Pakistani people to their Turkish brothers and sisters and reaffirmed the countries’ joint resolve to further strengthen their “unshakable bond of brotherhood and cooperation.”