President Erdogan and Prime Minister Sharif Reaffirm Türkiye–Pakistan Strategic Partnership
Istanbul, The Gulf Observer: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan received Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday at the Presidential Working Office in Dolmabahce Palace, Istanbul, as both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across a broad spectrum of strategic sectors.
The high-level meeting, according to Türkiye’s Communications Directorate, centered on strengthening Türkiye–Pakistan relations and addressing pressing regional and global developments.
President Erdogan underscored the mutual ambition to elevate the two countries’ trade volume to USD 5 billion, emphasizing continued efforts to enhance collaboration in key areas such as energy, transportation, and defence.
“We will continue taking steps to reach our trade target and deepen collaboration in energy, transportation, and defence,” Erdogan was quoted as saying during the discussions.
Enhanced Security, Connectivity, and Education Cooperation
A significant portion of the talks focused on security cooperation, particularly in counterterrorism. President Erdogan highlighted the value of enhanced intelligence sharing, training, and technological support between the two countries, noting that such cooperation serves their shared interests in regional stability and internal security.
He also emphasized the strategic importance of regional connectivity, calling for the improvement and full operationalization of the Istanbul–Tehran–Islamabad railway line. The route, he noted, holds substantial potential for boosting intra-regional trade and strengthening integration across Asia.
In the realm of education, Erdogan encouraged the implementation of concrete initiatives aimed at fostering long-term people-to-people ties and academic cooperation.
Common Stance on Palestine and Humanitarian Support
President Erdogan extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Sharif for Pakistan’s steadfast and principled support on the issue of Palestine. He briefed the Pakistani leader on Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic and humanitarian efforts to ensure the delivery of urgent aid to Gaza amid the continuing conflict.
High-Level Participation and Enduring Ties
The meeting was attended by senior Turkish officials, including Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Defence Minister Yasar Guler, National Intelligence Organization (MİT) Director İbrahim Kalin, Head of Communications Fahrettin Altun, Chief Foreign Policy and Security Advisor Akif Cagatay Kilic, and Turkish Land Forces Commander Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu.
The visit by Prime Minister Sharif represents a reaffirmation of the enduring brotherly ties between Türkiye and Pakistan—anchored in mutual trust, cultural affinity, and a shared vision for regional peace and prosperity.
