ISLAMABAD, Feb 13 (Alliance News): Pakistan and Turkiye have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in trade, economy, energy, defense, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges for mutual benefit.
Both sides emphasized the need to boost trade and investment relations, recognizing the vast potential for economic collaboration.
These discussions took place during a meeting between visiting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Thursday.
Welcoming President Erdogan and his delegation, President Zardari highlighted the historic fraternal ties between the two nations and their mutual support on international platforms. He stressed that Erdogan’s visit held special significance for Pakistan and would further solidify bilateral relations.
The Pakistani president reiterated the country’s investment-friendly environment and encouraged Turkish enterprises to invest in key economic sectors, including the stock market. He also called for greater banking sector cooperation and enhanced air connectivity to boost tourism and strengthen people-to-people ties.
The meeting also covered regional and international issues, including Gaza and Syria, with both leaders agreeing to work together for global peace and stability. President Zardari thanked President Erdogan for Turkiye’s unwavering support for Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.
President Erdogan reaffirmed Turkiye’s commitment to strengthening economic ties and pledged to encourage Turkish companies to invest in Pakistan, with a target of raising bilateral trade to $5 billion. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties to pass on the long-standing friendship to future generations.
He acknowledged Pakistan’s progress and stability and expressed gratitude for Islamabad’s continued support to Turkiye on the Cyprus issue. He also reiterated that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute should be resolved through dialogue and in line with UN Security Council resolutions.
Following the meeting, President Zardari hosted a banquet in honor of President Erdogan, First Lady Emine Erdogan, and the Turkish delegation.
