Pakistan and Türkiye have reaffirmed their long-standing friendship while pledging to strengthen cooperation across several strategic sectors.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made the commitment during a joint media briefing in Istanbul.
Both leaders emphasized their shared commitment to expanding economic cooperation and increasing bilateral trade to $5 billion.
Their discussions also covered regional developments and international peace efforts.
Leaders Reiterate Commitment to Stronger Economic Cooperation
President Erdogan welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistani delegation at the start of the meeting.
He said both countries have always supported one another during challenging times. “We always stand by each other,” President Erdogan said.
The Turkish president expressed satisfaction with the progress in bilateral relations. He also said both sides discussed expanding trade, investment, and broader economic cooperation.
According to President Erdogan, increasing commercial engagement remains a shared priority.
Pakistan and Türkiye Aim to Reach $5 Billion Trade Target
Both leaders reiterated their determination to increase bilateral trade to $5 billion. Prime Minister Shehbaz highlighted his meetings with Turkish business leaders during the Pakistan-Türkiye Business Forum.
He said both governments remain committed to strengthening commercial partnerships. The prime minister also encouraged greater investment between businesses from both countries. Officials believe stronger economic ties will create new opportunities across several industries.
Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding Discussed
President Erdogan also highlighted the significance of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed between the United States and Iran.
He described the agreement as an important development for regional and international peace. The Turkish president praised Pakistan’s efforts toward promoting peace, prosperity, and economic development.
He also stressed the importance of continued dialogue among regional partners.
PM Shehbaz Appreciates Türkiye’s Continued Support
Prime Minister Shehbaz thanked President Erdogan for the warm welcome and generous hospitality. He described the relationship between Pakistan and Türkiye as historic and deeply rooted.
The prime minister noted that Türkiye has consistently supported Pakistan during wars and natural disasters. He also recalled the historical connection established during the Khilafat Movement.
According to the prime minister, that shared history continues to strengthen relations today.
Business Cooperation Remains a Key Priority
Addressing the Pakistan-Türkiye Business Forum, Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized the importance of expanding economic cooperation.
He also expressed interest in benefiting from Türkiye’s experience in several reform areas. These include power distribution reforms, privatization, and improvements to electricity transmission systems.
The prime minister said stronger cooperation could help both countries achieve shared economic objectives.
Leaders Discuss Regional Peace and Stability
Regional security also remained a major topic during the discussions. Prime Minister Shehbaz said Pakistan was able to play a mediatory role during the recent United States-Iran tensions because of President Erdogan’s sincere support.
“The difficult diplomatic mission was never easy,” he said. He added that the ceasefire created an important opportunity to promote lasting peace. “It is essential to fully benefit from the opportunity of peace.”
Erdogan Warns Against Undermining Peace Efforts
President Erdogan also spoke about developments in the Middle East. He stressed that lasting peace cannot succeed without the support of regional countries.
“No solution that does not take strength from the will and contributions of regional countries can be lasting,” he said. He also warned against attempts to undermine the United States-Iran peace agreement.
“The current war-addicted Israeli government must not be allowed to drown our geography in the smell of gunpowder and blood again,” President Erdogan said.
Cooperation to Expand Across Multiple Sectors
President Erdogan said both countries intend to deepen cooperation beyond trade.
He identified energy, transport, critical minerals, information technology, and defence as important areas for future collaboration.
Both governments believe stronger cooperation in these sectors will further strengthen bilateral relations.
As preparations continue, Pakistan and Türkiye remain focused on expanding their strategic partnership while pursuing greater regional stability and sustainable economic growth.
