Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, joined by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, extended heartfelt appreciation to the government and people of Turkiye for their steadfast support to Pakistan amid recent developments in South Asia. He emphasized the deep-rooted fraternal ties between the two nations and lauded Turkiye unwavering solidarity, describing it as a source of strength and reassurance for Pakistan during challenging times.
Highlighting Pakistan’s recent military operations, the Prime Minister commended the unwavering commitment, courage, and patriotism of the Pakistani armed forces and citizens. He credited these qualities as instrumental in securing decisive victories in Marka-e-Haq and operation Bunyan Marsoos, underscoring Pakistan’s resolve in defending its sovereignty.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of deepening economic cooperation between Pakistan and Turkiye, particularly through joint ventures and expanded investment opportunities. He identified several key sectors with high potential for collaboration, including renewable energy, Information Technology, defense production, infrastructure development, and agriculture.
During the high-level meetings, both leaders conducted a thorough review of bilateral relations and reaffirmed their determination to elevate the strategic partnership. They also reviewed progress on decisions taken at the seventh session of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, held earlier in February 2025 in Islamabad, and agreed to work toward achieving the mutual goal of five billion dollars in annual bilateral trade.
Beyond bilateral matters, Prime Minister Sharif and President Erdogan reiterated their support for each other’s core concerns, including the Jammu and Kashmir issue. They expressed grave concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, jointly calling for an immediate ceasefire and the urgent provision of humanitarian aid. The discussions reinforced the enduring bond between the two nations, built on shared values, mutual respect, and a joint commitment to peace and prosperity.
After meeting, Shehbaz Sharif also posted on social media platform, X (Previously Twitter), once again thanking Erdogan for his unwavering support for Pakistan in challenging times of recent clash with arch-rival, India. He states, “Had the honor of meeting my dear brother President Reccep Tayipp Erdogan in Istanbul this evening. Thanked him for his resolute support to Pakistan in the recent Pakistan India standoff which resulted in Pakistan s overwhelming victory Alhamdolillah! Conveyed the sentiments of gratitude from the people of Pakistan to their Turkish brothers and sisters. We also reviewed the ongoing progress of our multifaceted bilateral engagements particularly in trade and investment and reaffirmed our resolve to continue working closely to further strengthen these unshakable bonds of brotherhood and cooperation.
Had the honor of meeting my dear brother President Reccep Tayipp Erdogan in Istanbul this evening. Thanked him for his resolute support to Pakistan in the recent Pakistan India standoff which resulted in Pakistan's overwhelming victory Alhamdolillah!Conveyed the sentiments of… pic.twitter.com/EEYxZdIf7g
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 25, 2025
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to embark on official visits to Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan, which will continue until the 30th of this month. His tour aims to strengthen diplomatic engagement and enhance Pakistan s relations with these friendly nations in light of recent regional developments.
During the visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold comprehensive talks with the leadership of the host countries. These discussions will span a wide spectrum of topics, including bilateral cooperation, regional security, and pressing international issues of mutual concern.
A key focus of the Prime Minister’s meetings will be to convey Pakistan’s profound gratitude for the solidarity shown by these nations during the recent crisis with India. He will use the opportunity to acknowledge their steadfast support during a challenging time for the country.
In addition, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will participate in the International Conference on Glaciers, which is set to take place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on the 29th and 30th of this month. The event offers a vital platform to discuss climate challenges and collaborative solutions for glacier preservation.
Meanwhile, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met with the Prime Minister to deliberate on the prevailing political, economic, and regional landscape. Their dialogue also touched upon internal and external security matters, particularly in light of the ongoing regional tensions. Bilawal also briefed the Prime Minister on recent diplomatic engagements and a detailed session held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs concerning Pakistan-India relations.
