Erdogan Affirms Support for Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Efforts

Following discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Ankara on Tuesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan voiced his support for Pakistan’s endeavors to eradicate terrorism within its borders.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, accompanied by a distinguished delegation, commenced a two-day official visit to the Turkish capital earlier in the day.

The delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi.

“We extend a warm welcome to Shehbaz Sharif upon his arrival in Türkiye. These interactions exemplify our robust friendship,” remarked President Erdogan during a joint press conference with PM Shehbaz after their individual meeting.

President Erdogan stated that Pakistan is resolute in its mission to eliminate the threat of terrorism and pledged backing for Islamabad’s strategies to combat militancy.

He further noted the alignment of views between the two nations on various global matters.

PM Shehbaz expressed gratitude to the Turkish president for the cordial reception he received.

The Prime Minister acknowledged Turkey’s significant advancements under President Erdogan’s leadership.

“I am appreciative of Türkiye’s collaboration in countering terrorism,” the Prime Minister stated, adding that both countries have committed to collaborate in sectors such as minerals, IT, and others.

Prior to the press conference, both Pakistan and Türkiye conveyed satisfaction with the positive development of their multifaceted bilateral relations and reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening their strategic partnership, fostering regional peace, stability, development, and prosperity.

During the bilateral meeting, PM Shehbaz and President Erdogan discussed the enhancement of bilateral ties and cooperation.

The leaders underscored the enduring fraternal bonds between Pakistan and Türkiye and reiterated their commitment to deepening cooperation across diverse sectors.

PM Shehbaz underscored the significance of enhancing economic collaboration, specifically through joint ventures and bilateral investments.

He emphasized the potential for cooperation in energy and mining, collaborative ventures in defence and agricultural production, enhancing regional and bilateral connectivity to stimulate trade and bolster people-to-people exchanges, and strengthening cooperation in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

During their discussions, both leaders acknowledged the progress made on the decisions from the 7th High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) held in Islamabad on February 13, 2024.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the advancement of the multifaceted bilateral collaboration between the two nations.

Prime Minister Shehbaz and President Erdogan also engaged in discussions regarding regional and global affairs, reaffirming their mutual support on matters of national importance.

Both leaders reiterated their commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye to promote peace, stability, development, and prosperity in the region.

President Erdogan also hosted a dinner in honour of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his delegation.