Islamabad (Web-Desk): In a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Defence Minister Yasar Güler met with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad today.
The high-level meeting was attended by senior Pakistani leadership, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and National Security Advisor Lt. General Muhammad Asim Malik.
The discussions underscored a mutual resolve to elevate Pakistan-Türkiye relations to a strategic partnership, with a particular focus on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and defence.
Welcoming the Turkish delegation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the deep-rooted fraternal ties between the two countries, anchored in shared history, culture, and mutual respect. He noted the positive trajectory of bilateral relations and reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to strengthening cooperation with Türkiye across multiple sectors.
Reflecting on his recent interactions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, including their meeting on the sidelines of the 17th ECO Summit, the Prime Minister emphasized the shared aspiration to transform bilateral relations into a long-term strategic partnership.
The Prime Minister also welcomed the convening of the Joint Commission meeting, co-chaired by Senator Ishaq Dar and Minister Hakan Fidan, expressing hope that it would further boost cooperation across a wide range of areas.
During the discussions, both sides reiterated their unwavering support for each other’s core national interests. Prime Minister Shehbaz stressed the importance of closer coordination in light of the evolving regional and global landscape, particularly with regard to developments in Gaza and Iran. He also expressed deep gratitude for Türkiye’s consistent support during moments of regional tension, including during the recent Indian aggression.
Underscoring the economic dimension of bilateral ties, the Prime Minister called for increased efforts to raise trade volume to the target of USD 5 billion. He invited Turkish companies to take advantage of Pakistan’s investor-friendly environment and contribute to the country’s structural reforms and economic development initiatives.
The visit marks a reaffirmation of the growing convergence between Pakistan and Türkiye on regional issues and their shared ambition to deepen strategic and economic ties in the years ahead.
