PM Shehbaz, Erdogan reaffirm Pakistan-Turkiye brotherly ties

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a bilateral meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday on the sidelines of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP31 Leaders Summit, discussing ways to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, defence, energy and connectivity.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the two leaders reaffirmed the deep-rooted historic and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Turkiye and expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory of bilateral relations.

They held wide-ranging discussions on enhancing cooperation, with a particular focus on trade and investment, defence collaboration, energy cooperation and connectivity.

Both leaders stressed the need to expedite ongoing initiatives and explore new opportunities to deepen economic engagement. They also exchanged views on the evolving regional situation and broader global developments.

Shehbaz highlighted ongoing efforts by regional countries, particularly members of the Makkah Accord, to promote de-escalation and dialogue.

Erdogan appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role and mediation efforts, which led to the signing of the Islamabad MoU. The prime minister thanked the Turkish president for his continued support and close coordination throughout Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts.

Both leaders underscored the importance of all parties adhering to their commitments under the Islamabad MoU to ensure lasting peace in the wider region.

They also reaffirmed their support for each other on issues of core national interest and resolved to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Pakistan and Turkiye, building on their longstanding ties and shared vision for peace and prosperity.