Islamabad: Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Chaudhry Salik Hussain and the Ambassador of Turkey, Irfan Nazir Oglu, have agreed to enhance cooperation in technical education and job opportunities for skilled Pakistanis. The decision was reached during a meeting in which both parties discussed proposals related to religious harmony, employment, and mutual respect for humanity.

According to a statement by Press Information Department, the meeting underscored the close historical and cultural ties between Pakistan and Turkey. Both nations pledged to support each other on regional and international platforms and expressed a shared commitment to addressing global issues. The Turkish Ambassador conveyed condolences for the recent Morocco boat incident and emphasized Turkey’s dedication to expanding job opportunities for Pakistani workers.

The discussion also highlighted Turkey’s plans to increase machinery supply to Pakistani industries and expand technical training projects. Despite the current presence of several Turkish companies in Pakistan, both sides acknowledged the potential for increased joint investment and trade. Minister Hussain remarked on the importance of better banking channels to facilitate mutual trade and remittances, which reached a record $3.1 billion in December 2024.

The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to further cooperation in combating extremism and terrorism, enhancing interfaith harmony, and providing modern technical education to skilled Pakistanis. This cooperation aims to build on the existing economic and social ties between the two countries.