Istanbul: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have pledged to deepen the multifaceted cooperation between Pakistan and Turkiye, focusing on economic and strategic partnerships. During a meeting in Istanbul, the two leaders expressed gratitude and mutual support, emphasizing the need to bolster ties in key areas such as renewable energy, information technology, defense, and infrastructure.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed appreciation for Turkiye’s consistent support during recent developments in South Asia. He praised Turkiye’s principled stance and the solidarity shown by its people, calling it a source of strength for Pakistan.

The meeting, described as warm and cordial, saw both leaders conducting a comprehensive review of bilateral relations. They reaffirmed their commitment to elevating their strategic partnership and agreed to pursue a five billion dollar annual bilateral trade target.

The leaders emphasized the importance of joint ventures and increased bilateral investment, identifying several sectors of mutual interest and potential. They also discussed the implementation of decisions made during the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council held in Islamabad in February 2025.

Beyond economic cooperation, Sharif and Erdogan reiterated their support for each other’s core concerns, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. They expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for a ceasefire and humanitarian access.

The engagement highlighted the historic and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, grounded in shared values and a vision for progress. The leaders concluded their meeting with a commitment to work closely on regional peace and sustainable development.

The visit included a dinner hosted by President Erdogan in honor of Prime Minister Sharif and his delegation, underscoring the warm relations between the two nations.