PM Sharif begins Türkiye visit for Erdogan talks on strategic bilateral cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Istanbul on Friday on a bilateral visit at the invitation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, where the two leaders will hold wide-ranging talks aimed at strengthening Pakistan-Türkiye relations and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

PM Sharif was received upon arrival at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport by Türkiye's Minister of Trade Professor Dr. Omer Bolat, Pakistan's Ambassador to Türkiye Dr. Yousaf Junaid and senior officials from Türkiye's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Pakistani Embassy, according to the Prime Minister's Office.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar are accompanying the prime minister.

Pakistan and Türkiye enjoy longstanding brotherly relations rooted in shared history, mutual trust and close political cooperation. The two countries maintain regular high-level exchanges under the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council and have steadily expanded collaboration in trade, investment, defense, energy, education and regional diplomacy.

During their meeting, PM Sharif and President Erdogan are expected to review the full spectrum of bilateral relations, with particular emphasis on enhancing cooperation in trade and investment. 

The two leaders will also exchange views on regional peace and security, the Prime Minister's Office said.

During his stay, the prime minister will also address a Pakistan-hosted business conference aimed at showcasing the country's investment potential.

According to the Prime Minister's Office, the conference will highlight opportunities in Pakistan's Special Economic Zones, energy, information technology, privatization and other key sectors.

Prominent Turkish business leaders, investors, senior government officials and other distinguished participants are expected to attend the event, which is intended to promote stronger commercial partnerships and encourage greater Turkish investment in Pakistan.