ISTANBUL: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Istanbul on an official visit to Turkey at the invitation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, where discussions are expected to be held on ways to further strengthen the long-standing strategic partnership between the two sides.
The Prime Minister was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar. He was received by Turkish Minister of Commerce Prof. Dr. Umar Bolat upon arrival at Istanbul Airport.
Pakistani Ambassador to Turkey Dr. Yusuf Junaid and senior officials of the Turkish Foreign Ministry were also present to welcome the Pakistani delegation.
According to an official statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz and President Erdogan will hold comprehensive talks covering all important areas of Pak-Turkey bilateral relations. The meeting is expected to focus on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, economic development and other areas of mutual interest.
The two leaders will also discuss regional peace, security and emerging geopolitical developments, reaffirming their commitment to close coordination on issues of common concern.
During his stay in Istanbul, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will also address a high-level business conference attended by Turkish businessmen, investors and senior government officials.
The conference will showcase investment opportunities in Pakistan’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs), energy, information technology and privatization initiatives. The government hopes that the event will encourage more Turkish investment and strengthen trade relations between the two countries.
Pakistan and Turkey have traditionally enjoyed close diplomatic, economic and defence ties and the latest visit is expected to further deepen cooperation in a number of areas, opening up new avenues for business and investment.
