Erdogan, Sharif pledge enduring Pakistan-Türkiye partnership

ISTANBUL: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Türkiye and Pakistan will “always stand by each other” during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Istanbul on Friday, as both leaders pledged deeper cooperation in trade, investment and regional affairs.

Welcoming Sharif and his delegation, Erdogan said the two sides discussed bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues, expressing satisfaction with the current pace of ties between Ankara and Islamabad.

“We always stand by each other,” Erdogan said, adding that discussions also focused on expanding trade, investment and broader economic cooperation, including coordination on special economic zones between relevant ministries.

He said Türkiye would continue supporting efforts aimed at peace and prosperity and described an “Islamabad memorandum” as important for global stability. Erdogan also praised Pakistan’s initiatives for peace, development and regional cooperation.

During the briefing, Erdogan also accused Israel of attempting to undermine a U.S.-Iran understanding, warning that such actions threaten regional security.

Sharif, in his remarks, thanked Erdogan for the warm welcome and said Pakistan and Türkiye share a deep emotional and historic bond.

He noted that Türkiye had consistently supported Pakistan during wars and natural disasters, including floods and earthquakes.

The Pakistani prime minister also expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s assistance in disaster-hit areas of Pakistan and said both countries are committed to expanding trade to a target of $5 billion.

Sharif said discussions also covered investment opportunities in special economic zones and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Türkiye’s position on Cyprus while acknowledging Ankara’s support on the Kashmir issue.