Erdogan Affirms Backing 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.

PM Shehbaz, together with a prominent delegation, had earlier arrived in the Turkish capital for a formal two-day visit.

The delegation accompanying the prime minister 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 on his visit to Turkiye. These interactions underscore our strong bond,” remarked President Erdogan during a joint press briefing with PM Shehbaz after their individual meeting.

President Erdogan stated that Pakistan is resolute in its mission to combat terrorism and conveyed his support for Islamabad’s strategies in addressing militancy.

He further noted the alignment of perspectives between the two allied nations on significant global matters.

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

The Prime Minister noted Turkey’s remarkable advancements under President Erdogan’s leadership.

“I am thankful for Turkiye’s collaboration in countering terrorism,” the Prime Minister stated, adding that both nations have agreed to pursue cooperative ventures in the mineral, IT, and other sectors.

Prior to the joint press conference, both Pakistan and Turkiye acknowledged the positive trajectory of their multifaceted bilateral relations and reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing their strategic partnership, with the aim of promoting regional peace, stability, development, and prosperity.

The bilateral discussions encompassed an examination of ties and avenues for collaboration between PM Shehbaz and President Erdogan.

The meeting highlighted the deep-rooted fraternal connection between Pakistan and Turkiye, reinforcing their mutual commitment to bolster cooperation across diverse sectors.

PM Shehbaz stressed the significance of boosting economic collaboration through joint initiatives and bilateral investments.

He emphasized the potential for collaborative projects in energy and mining, defense and agricultural production, improved regional and bilateral connectivity to stimulate trade, increased people-to-people interactions, and enhanced cooperation in cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

During the 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, 2025.

Both leaders conveyed satisfaction with the advancement of the multifaceted bilateral engagement between the two nations.

Prime Minister Shehbaz and President Erdogan also exchanged views on regional and global issues, reaffirming mutual support on matters of national importance.

Both leaders reiterated their dedication to strengthening the strategic alliance between Pakistan and Turkiye, promoting regional peace, stability, development, and prosperity.

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