Pakistan and Turkey have agreed to boost their bilateral trade to reach five billion dollars. This decision was made during delegation-level talks between the two countries in Islamabad.
Representing Pakistan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar led the delegation, while Turkey was represented by its Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The discussions focused on reviewing progress in bilateral cooperation and exchanging views on regional and international matters of mutual interest.
In a joint news conference with the Turkish Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar announced plans to convene the next session of the Pakistan-Turkey High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council soon. This meeting will comprehensively review ongoing cooperation and the bilateral strategic economic framework.
Dar highlighted the history of collaboration between Pakistan and Turkey on defense-related projects, emphasizing ongoing joint ventures and mutual support in safeguarding territorial sovereignty and combating terrorism. He expressed gratitude to Turkey for its consistent support to the people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and reiterated Pakistan’s support for the legitimate struggle of the people of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Emphasizing the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations, Dar stated that Pakistan and Turkey share a special bond that existed even before the establishment of Pakistan.
The Turkish Foreign Minister echoed Dar’s sentiments, describing Pakistan as a strategic partner and emphasizing their cooperation in promoting regional peace and stability. He reiterated Turkey’s unwavering support for Pakistan in its fight against terrorism.
The Turkish Foreign Minister highlighted the fruitful nature of his meeting with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and expressed a commitment to strengthen relations not only in trade but also in defense, investment, banking, science, and technology.
Both Foreign Ministers voiced serious concerns about the situation in Gaza, calling for a permanent ceasefire and the provision of humanitarian relief to the Palestinian people.