Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reaffirmed the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and Türkiye, pledging to elevate their strategic partnership through expanded cooperation in trade, investment, defence, energy, technology, and regional peace initiatives. During high-level talks in Istanbul, both leaders agreed to accelerate efforts to achieve their shared goal of increasing bilateral trade to $5 billion.
Addressing a joint press conference after delegation-level meetings at the historic Vahdettin Palace, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Pakistan and Türkiye as “two hearts, one soul,” emphasizing that the relationship between the two countries is built on centuries of shared history, common faith, mutual trust, and unwavering support during difficult times.
The two leaders reviewed progress in bilateral relations and discussed practical measures to strengthen cooperation in energy, infrastructure, information technology, mining, transportation, defence production, and digital connectivity. They also reaffirmed their commitment to expanding investment opportunities and creating stronger business partnerships between the two countries.
President Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s continued support for Pakistan and highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for Turkish businesses in Karachi. He also announced plans to expand the Pakistan-Türkiye Preferential Trade Agreement and encourage greater private-sector collaboration through business forums and investment initiatives.
Prime Minister Shehbaz invited Turkish investors to increase investments in Pakistan’s energy, mining, information technology, telecommunications, infrastructure, logistics, agriculture, manufacturing, and privatization sectors. He assured investors that Pakistan remains committed to providing a transparent and business-friendly investment environment supported by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international developments, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only sustainable path toward lasting peace. President Erdogan praised Pakistan’s mediation efforts in facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States and appreciated Islamabad’s contribution to promoting regional stability.
Both countries reaffirmed their longstanding support for each other’s core national interests. Prime Minister Shehbaz thanked Türkiye for its consistent support on the Kashmir issue, while Pakistan reiterated its support for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
A major highlight of the visit was the Pakistan-Türkiye Business Forum, where business leaders explored new opportunities in trade, technology, manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and strategic investments. The discussions also included proposals for greater cooperation in 5G technology, telecommunications, software development, digital skills training, and emerging technologies.
The meeting concluded with both leaders expressing confidence that the decisions taken during the visit would translate into stronger economic ties, increased investment, enhanced defence collaboration, and a more comprehensive strategic partnership that benefits both nations for years to come.
