Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening the comprehensive and strategic partnership between Pakistan and Turkiye during a high-level meeting held in Istanbul on Sunday.
During the official two-day visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with President Erdogan in a warm and cordial atmosphere, where both leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations. They pledged to strengthen collaboration in areas of mutual interest and to jointly work for regional peace, sustainable development, and the prosperity of their peoples.
The engagement underscored the historical and brotherly relationship between the two nations, rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a unified vision for progress.
Prime Minister Sharif, accompanied by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and other senior officials, expressed profound gratitude to the Turkish leadership and people for their steadfast support during recent regional tensions in South Asia. He particularly appreciated Turkiye’s firm stance and public solidarity with Pakistan.
Highlighting Pakistan’s recent achievements, the Prime Minister praised the courage of the Armed Forces and the patriotism of the people, which contributed to the country’s successes in operations like Marak-e-Haq and Bunyanum Marsoos.
The leaders emphasized expanding economic cooperation through joint ventures and increased investment, especially in renewable energy, IT, defence production, infrastructure, and agriculture. Both sides committed to fully implementing decisions made during the 7th High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) session held in Islamabad in February 2025, and reiterated the goal of reaching $5 billion in annual bilateral trade.
In addition to bilateral matters, Prime Minister Sharif and President Erdogan also discussed key regional and global developments. They reaffirmed mutual support on core issues, including Jammu and Kashmir, and voiced deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging an immediate ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian aid access.
President Erdogan hosted a formal dinner in honor of Prime Minister Sharif and his delegation, which included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister Attaullah Tarar, SAPM Tariq Fatemi, and Ambassador Dr. Yusuf Junaid.
