Pakistan and Turkiye share a rich history of bilateral cooperation across various domains, and to further strengthen these brotherly ties, a high-level Turkish delegation arrived in Pakistan late Tuesday night.
The delegation, comprising Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Defence Minister Yasar Güler, who arrived separately, was warmly welcomed by the Foreign Office’s Additional Secretary (West Asia), Ambassador Syed Ali Asad Gillani.
“Key matters of mutual interest will be discussed. The visit highlights the close brotherly ties between Pakistan and Türkiye, founded on shared values, mutual respect, and a long history of friendship,” the FO stated. As reported by The News, important issues of mutual interest will be deliberated during their official engagements in Pakistan.
The visit underscores the close and fraternal relations between Pakistan and Turkiye, deeply rooted in shared history, culture, and mutual trust. The delegation is also anticipated to discuss measures aimed at enhancing bilateral defence cooperation.
Foreign Minister Fidan’s most recent visit to Pakistan was on May 18, which also marked his first official visit, where he met with Pakistan’s top civilian and military leadership. Diplomatic sources in Islamabad and Turkiye indicate that the delegation will have a busy schedule, with calls on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir.
Turkish media reported: “Türkiye and Pakistan enjoy close bilateral relations in the fields of economy, trade, and defence. The high-level visit is expected to advance bilateral cooperation in the fields of security and counter-terrorism.”
The Palestinian issue is expected to be a prominent topic among the various subjects the two sides will bring to the table, in addition to reviewing the progress of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting held in February. Both delegations will also discuss measures to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation, especially given that Turkiye has emerged as Pakistan’s second-largest arms supplier.
A Turkish report highlighted: “Ankara fulfilled 11% of Islamabad’s total arms needs in 2023 by exporting weaponry and ammunition worth $21 million.”
Of significant note is the fact that Turkiye was not only the first country to express solidarity with Pakistan during the Indian attack, but throughout the conflict, Ankara consistently voiced its support, a stance that greatly displeased India.
