Pakistan, Turkiye Strengthen Ties, Aim for $5 Billion Trade

Pakistan and Turkiye agreed to enhance bilateral

cooperation across multiple sectors, including

defense, economy, education, health, and science

Associated Press of Pakistan

Islamabad: Pakistan and Turkiye have agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, including defense, economy, education, health, and science. The two nations reaffirmed their commitment to achieving a $5 billion trade volume.

The discussions took place during a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The 7th session of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) also reviewed trade, investment, agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and technology collaborations.

Strengthening Strategic Ties

Addressing a joint press stakeout, both leaders emphasized their commitment to combating terrorism, calling it a common enemy. PM Shehbaz assured swift implementation of agreements, including the development of a special economic zone by a Turkish firm.

Welcoming President Erdogan, he highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, dating back centuries. He recalled Turkiye’s unwavering support during Pakistan’s crises, including earthquakes and floods.

The premier lauded President Erdogan’s leadership on issues like Gaza, Palestine, and Kashmir, acknowledging Turkiye’s consistent advocacy for Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir.

MoUs and Agreements Signed

During the visit, both countries signed 24 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements covering trade, water resources, agriculture, energy, science, education, banking, and defense.

Key agreements include:

• Trade and Economy: MoUs on digital verification of trade origin certificates and economic collaboration between the Export Credit Bank of Turkiye and the Export-Import Bank of Pakistan.
• Defense: MoUs on Air Force electronic warfare, military personnel exchanges, and joint manufacturing projects.
• Science & Technology: Agreements on halal trade, legal metrology infrastructure, and textile technology cooperation.
• Energy & Natural Resources: Protocols on hydrocarbons, energy transition, and mining.
• Media & Cultural Cooperation: MoUs on public relations, communications, audiovisual services, and cultural exchanges.
• Health & Education: Agreements on technical cooperation in pharmaceuticals and military health training.

Turkiye Encourages Investment in Pakistan

President Erdogan urged Turkish investors to expand operations in Pakistan, emphasizing flagship projects. He reaffirmed Turkiye’s support for Pakistan’s fight against terrorism and regional stability.

Both leaders agreed to intensify trade relations and broaden the Goods Trade Agreement scope as a first step towards the $5 billion target. Military cooperation and joint defense projects were also discussed.

High-Level Meetings and Diplomatic Engagements

The visit included a ceremonial reception for President Erdogan at the Prime Minister House, where he inspected the Guard of Honour and witnessed a Pakistan Air Force flypast.

The HLSCC session featured progress reports from nine Joint Standing Committees, with two new committees on Health and IT presenting their updates. The meeting was attended by Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir.

The visit marks a significant milestone in Pakistan-Turkiye relations, reinforcing the commitment to strategic cooperation and mutual economic growth.