ANKARA: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkiye has expressed strong support for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s diplomatic endeavors aimed at fostering peace in the region, assuring continued backing from Turkiye. The remarks were made during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

According to Radio Pakistan, the discussion between the two leaders focused on recent regional developments, particularly the Middle East’s evolving situation. Prime Minister Sharif expressed gratitude to President Erdogan for his consistent support and shared updates on efforts to extend the ceasefire and resume peace talks. Both leaders emphasized the importance of seizing the current opportunity to secure lasting regional peace.

The meeting also underscored the historic and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, with both leaders expressing satisfaction over the positive development in bilateral relations. They agreed to convene the 8th High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting in Ankara later this year to strengthen these ties further. The leaders also discussed the necessity of expediting ongoing initiatives and exploring new avenues for economic engagement.

Prime Minister Sharif extended his appreciation for the traditional Turkish hospitality and congratulated President Erdogan on the success of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, noting its prominence as a significant global event.