ISLAMABAD: Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has left for Ankara to meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to discuss bilateral ties and the regional situation, Sharif’s office said on Tuesday.
Pakistan and Turkiye enjoy close cultural, historical and military relations which they are now expanding into the realms of trade, economy and investment as both countries seek to develop their economies.
“During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold extensive discussions with President Erdogan on bilateral relations as well as exchange views on recent developments in the region and beyond,” the Pakistani foreign office said.
“The upcoming meeting represents a continuation of robust dialogue and underscores the shared commitment to further elevate the multifaceted partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye.”
As long-standing allies and strategic partners, Pakistan and Turkiye maintain a tradition of regular exchanges and have institutionalized leadership-level mechanisms such as the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC).
The 7th session of the HLSCC was held in Islamabad on Feb 12-13 this year, and co-chair by Sharif and Erdogan.
“The upcoming meeting represents a continuation of this strong dialogue and highlights the shared commitment to further elevate the multifaceted partnership between Pakistan and Turkiye,” Sharif’s office said in a statement.
Pakistan and Turkiye have a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) since August 2022, granting tariff concessions on certain goods, and are working to increase bilateral trade to $5 billion.
While trade has increased in recent years, it is not yet a major trading partner for either country. A Free Trade Agreement is also under consideration.
In 2023, Pakistan’s exports to Turkiye were $352.1 million, and imports stood at $250.8 million. Turkiye’s exports to Pakistan in 2024 included items like lead, meat, and works of art while Pakistan’s exports to Turkiye included explosives, zinc, meat, and fur skins.