ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said his country was committed to unlocking the “vast potential” of its relationship with Türkiye, calling the two nations “steadfast partners in a shared journey of progress” as Ankara marked its 102nd Republic Day.

|The remarks highlighted the close political and defense partnership between the two countries, which Sharif described as “united by bonds of faith, history, and fraternity that transcend geography and time.”

Türkiye and Pakistan have expanded their cooperation in recent years, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan paying a state visit to Pakistan earlier this year.

During that visit, the two sides signed multiple memoranda of understanding covering defense, technology transfer and trade.

“Over the decades, Türkiye’s remarkable transformation and economic resurgence under the bold and dynamic leadership of President Erdoğan have earned global admiration,” Sharif said in a post on X. “We take great pride in the accomplishments of our Turkish brothers and remain their steadfast partners in this journey of progress.”

“Our relationship has entered a new era of strategic partnership under the sagacious guidance of President Erdoğan, as we strive together to unlock the vast potential of our time-tested and enduring ties in all areas of shared interest,” he added.

Türkiye’s shipyards have assisted Pakistan in building naval corvettes, and discussions are reportedly underway to expand cooperation into drones, aviation and advanced manufacturing.

Sharif’s comments reflect Islamabad’s growing alignment with Ankara on regional and international issues.

In May, Erdoğan conveyed Türkiye’s solidarity with Pakistan amid a military standoff with India, reaffirming Ankara’s diplomatic support.

Pakistan and Afghanistan also held talks in Istanbul this month, facilitated by Türkiye and Qatar, to resolve tensions following fierce border clashes.