Islamabad: Pakistan and Turkiye have vowed to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, economy, energy, defense, and tourism, during a meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari in Islamabad.

According to a statement by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, both leaders emphasized the potential for increased economic collaboration, underscoring the importance of boosting trade and investment relations. The meeting highlighted the historic ties between the two nations, with President Zardari noting the significance of President Erdogan’s visit for strengthening bilateral relations.

President Zardari extended an invitation to Turkish enterprises to invest in Pakistan, particularly in key economic areas such as the stock market, citing the country’s investment-friendly environment. He also called for enhanced cooperation in the banking sectors to facilitate business and increase trade volumes.

The discussion also covered regional and international issues, including the situations in Gaza and Syria, where both leaders agreed to work together to promote peace and stability. President Zardari expressed gratitude for Turkiye’s support for Kashmir’s right to self-determination.

President Erdogan reaffirmed Turkiye’s commitment to enhancing bilateral economic ties and encouraged Turkish companies to invest in Pakistan, setting a trade target of five billion dollars. He emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people relations and acknowledged Pakistan’s support on the Cyprus issue.

The meeting concluded with a banquet hosted by President Zardari in honor of President Erdogan, First Lady Emine Erdogan, and the Turkish delegation.