New York: On the sidelines of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss a range of bilateral and global issues, including a strengthened partnership and the situation in Gaza.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, defense, and security. Both leaders agreed to bolster these areas as they prepared for the upcoming 7th session of the Pakistan-Türkiye High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), scheduled to be held in Islamabad soon.

The discussion also covered pressing regional and global developments, notably the ongoing genocide and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Prime Minister Sharif and President Erdogan called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the cessation of hostilities in the region. Additionally, Prime Minister Sharif expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s continuous support for the people of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

During the meeting, President Erdogan praised Prime Minister Sharif’s economic policies, which he noted have significantly contributed to the stabilization of Pakistan’s economy. He also commended Sharif’s leadership and commitment to economic reform. On a personal note, President Erdogan extended birthday wishes to Prime Minister Sharif, highlighting the warm relations between the two leaders.