In a powerful show of unity, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey held a joint press conference in Ankara, reaffirming the deep-rooted ties between the two brotherly nations. Both leaders condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza, expressed support for an independent Palestinian state, and committed to enhanced cooperation across a range of sectors, including energy, mining, minerals, and information technology (IT).
This high-level meeting underlined not only the shared historical bonds between Pakistan and Turkey but also their joint resolve to work toward regional stability, combat terrorism, and advocate for the rights of oppressed people worldwide.
A Warm Welcome in Ankara: Celebrating Pakistan-Turkey Brotherhood
During the press conference, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warmly welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Turkey. Erdogan emphasized that Pakistan and Turkey share an unbreakable bond rooted in brotherhood, mutual respect, and trust.
He highlighted that mutual visits, bilateral engagements, and joint initiatives are clear signs of the strong friendship that continues to thrive between the two nations despite evolving regional and global challenges.
Underlining the historic relationship, Erdogan noted, “Turkey and Pakistan have always stood by each other through thick and thin, and Turkey remains committed to supporting Pakistan in every possible way.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed heartfelt gratitude for the hospitality extended by President Erdogan and the people of Turkey, remarking that Turkey’s development under Erdogan’s leadership has been exemplary and inspiring for many nations.
Cooperation in Key Sectors: Energy, Mining, Minerals, and IT
Both leaders announced that Pakistan and Turkey have agreed to enhance cooperation in critical sectors such as:
- Energy: including renewable energy projects and energy security.
- Mining and Minerals: tapping into Pakistan’s and Turkey’s vast natural resources.
- Information Technology (IT): fostering innovation, digital economy collaborations, and tech entrepreneurship.
This renewed focus on economic cooperation is seen as a major step toward deepening the strategic partnership between the two countries, creating new opportunities for trade, investment, and joint ventures.
Standing Against Terrorism: A Unified Front
President Erdogan voiced Turkey’s full support for Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorism in all its forms.
He stated, “We support Pakistan’s efforts to eliminate all types of terrorism. Turkey is always ready to provide all possible help and cooperation to its brother Pakistan.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also stressed the urgency of intensifying the global fight against terrorism, emphasizing that it is time for the international community to come together to formulate a comprehensive strategy to eradicate terrorism, which remains a major threat to global peace.
The leaders reaffirmed that terrorism should not be associated with any particular religion, nationality, or ethnic group, and stressed the importance of addressing its root causes through dialogue, development, and justice.
Deep Solidarity: Turkey’s Support for Pakistan During Difficult Times
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recalled Turkey’s unwavering support for Pakistan during some of its darkest hours.
He mentioned two pivotal moments:
- The 2010 Devastating Floods: When Turkey, under President Erdogan’s leadership, extended humanitarian aid and solidarity to Pakistan.
- The 2022 Catastrophic Floods: Once again, Turkey stood by Pakistan, providing emergency assistance and President Erdogan personally visiting Pakistan to express support.
Sharif thanked Turkey for these gestures, noting that “Turkey has always proved that true friends are those who stand by you in times of hardship.”
Condemning Israeli Aggression in Gaza: A Call for Immediate Ceasefire
Turning their attention to the grave situation in the Middle East, both leaders strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression against Palestinians in Gaza.
They called for an immediate ceasefire, urging the international community to step up efforts to stop the bloodshed and humanitarian disaster.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Erdogan reiterated their unwavering support for the establishment of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders, with Jerusalem as its capital.
Highlighting the tragic human toll, they mourned the deaths of over 50,000 innocent Palestinians, including women and children, who have been martyred in the relentless Israeli military operations.
Both leaders emphasized that justice, peace, and the protection of human rights must guide the world’s response to the crisis.
Broader Discussions: Regional and Global Affairs
The meeting between the two leaders also covered a range of pressing regional and global issues beyond Gaza. Topics discussed included:
- The deteriorating situation in the Middle East, with an emphasis on humanitarian efforts and diplomatic solutions.
- The importance of regional cooperation in South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East to foster peace and economic development.
- The role of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and other multilateral organizations in addressing challenges facing Muslim-majority nations.
Both leaders agreed that stronger cooperation between Pakistan and Turkey can contribute meaningfully to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity across the Muslim world and beyond.
Pakistan-Turkey Relations: A Historic Partnership
The Pakistan-Turkey relationship has deep historical roots, dating back to the early 20th century when the people of British India, including present-day Pakistan, supported Turkey during the Khilafat Movement.
Since Pakistan’s independence in 1947, both countries have enjoyed close diplomatic, military, and economic relations, marked by regular high-level exchanges and collaboration on international platforms.
Key highlights of the bilateral relationship include:
- Strong defense cooperation, including joint military exercises and defense production initiatives.
- Growing trade relations, with efforts underway to increase bilateral trade volumes significantly.
- Cultural and educational exchanges, fostering people-to-people connections through scholarships, joint cultural events, and academic partnerships.
The current meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Erdogan is seen as a continuation of this time-tested partnership, reinforcing their shared commitment to deepen ties across all sectors.
Conclusion: A Pledge for a Brighter Future
The joint press conference in Ankara reaffirmed that Pakistan and Turkey are unwavering allies, united by shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision for a peaceful, prosperous world.
By condemning atrocities in Gaza, pledging to fight terrorism together, and expanding cooperation across critical sectors, both nations have charted a course toward greater solidarity and collaboration.
As the world faces mounting challenges from regional conflicts to global terrorism, the Pakistan-Turkey partnership stands out as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of friendship, unity, and shared purpose.
