Pakistan and Turkey Strengthen Bilateral Relations
Pakistan and Turkiye have solidified their strategic partnership by signing a total of 24 agreements, MoUs, and protocols during the 7th session of the Pakistan-Turkiye High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council in Islamabad. This monumental event, which took place on Thursday, was marked by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signing a Joint Declaration to deepen and institutionalize their bond at the Prime Minister’s House. The core focus of these agreements is to enhance bilateral cooperation and strengthen economic ties with a target of achieving a bilateral trade volume of $5 billion.
Diverse Sectors Covered in Agreements
The agreements span across a wide array of sectors, including defense, power, energy, mining, trade, water, education, banking, health, legal affairs, media, aerospace, halal food, culture, and business. Among the signed documents, four MoUs are dedicated to the defense sector, while others touch on scientific education, religious services, pharmaceutical industries, and cultural co-productions. These agreements mark a significant step in fostering mutual growth and collaboration between the two nations.
Erdogan and Shehbaz Sharif’s Commitment
During a joint press conference, President Erdogan emphasized the importance of these agreements in bolstering trade and investment relations. He also highlighted the commitment of both countries to joint manufacturing, procurement, and sales in the defense sector, showcasing a shared vision for future collaborations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan’s dedication to strengthening ties with Turkiye, emphasizing the compassionate and respectful nature of their partnership.
Solidarity and Support
President Erdogan commended Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism and reiterated Turkiye’s unwavering support on international issues, including the Kashmir dispute. He reaffirmed Turkiye’s solidarity with Kashmiris and called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict under UN resolutions. Additionally, Erdogan praised Pakistan’s stance on Palestine and vowed to continue joint efforts for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Warm Welcome and Official Visit
Upon President Erdogan’s arrival at the Prime Minister House, he was greeted with a grand guard of honor, signifying the beginning of his official visit. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with members of his federal cabinet, extended a warm welcome to the Turkish president and his delegation. The visit also included a spectacular flypast by F-16 fighter jets, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.
In Conclusion
President Erdogan’s visit to Pakistan served as a testament to the strong bond between the two nations and their shared commitment to mutual growth and collaboration. The signed agreements pave the way for enhanced cooperation across various sectors, marking a new chapter in the Pakistan-Turkey strategic partnership. The future holds promising opportunities for both countries as they work together to achieve their common goals and strengthen their bilateral relations.
