Pakistan and Turkey Strengthen Ties with Focus on Security, Gaza, and Economic Cooperation
Key Points:
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Strong Bilateral Commitment
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PM Shehbaz Sharif and President Erdogan reaffirmed their commitment to deepening Pakistan-Turkey relations during talks in Ankara.
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Both leaders emphasized shared perspectives on global issues, including counter-terrorism, Palestine, and Kashmir.
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Counter-Terrorism & Security Cooperation
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Erdogan praised Pakistan’s “determined stance” against terrorism and pledged Turkey’s full support.
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Discussions included defense collaboration, with potential joint projects in military and security sectors.
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Gaza Crisis & Palestinian Statehood
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Shehbaz condemned Israel’s killing of 50,000+ Palestinians and called for an immediate ceasefire.
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Erdogan lauded Pakistan as one of the strongest voices against the Gaza genocide and vowed joint efforts for an independent Palestinian state.
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Economic & Technological Partnerships
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Both nations agreed to expand cooperation in:
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Energy, mining, and minerals
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Information technology, AI, and cybersecurity
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Agriculture and regional connectivity (boosting trade and people-to-people ties).
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Shehbaz stressed the need for joint ventures and bilateral investments.
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Diplomatic Support on Key Issues
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Pakistan reiterated support for Turkey’s stance on Cyprus.
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Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s backing for Pakistan on Kashmir.
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Follow-Up on Strategic Council Decisions
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Both leaders reviewed progress from the 7th High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) held in Islamabad (Feb 2024).
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Expressed satisfaction with ongoing multifaceted collaboration.
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High-Level Engagement
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Shehbaz’s delegation included Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Info Minister Ataullah Tarar, and SAPM Tariq Fatemi.
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Erdogan hosted a state banquet in the PM’s honor.
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The meeting underscored the deep strategic partnership between Pakistan and Turkey, with both nations aligning on security, economic growth, and geopolitical issues. Their unified stance on Palestine and Kashmir highlights their role as influential Muslim-majority states. The focus on defense, energy, and tech collaboration signals a shift toward long-term economic and strategic ties. As global tensions rise, Pakistan and Turkey’s strengthened alliance could play a pivotal role in regional stability and diplomatic advocacy.