A New Era of Strategic Partnership
In a landmark development, Pakistan and Turkiye signed 24 agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at deepening their bilateral ties across multiple sectors. This historic event followed the 7th Session of the Pakistan-Turkiye High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), held in Islamabad on February 12, 2025.
The high-profile visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who was received with full state honors, marks a significant step toward institutionalizing the strategic partnership between the two brotherly nations.
Alongside Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, both leaders pledged to enhance cooperation in defence, trade, energy, health, media, culture, aerospace, halal food, banking, and business.
Among the key commitments made was a joint target of achieving a bilateral trade volume of $5 billion, signaling a new phase of economic collaboration.
Key Highlights of the Agreements
The 24 agreements signed between Pakistan and Turkiye reflect a diversified approach to strengthening bilateral cooperation. Some of the most crucial sectors covered include:
1. Defence and Military Cooperation
- Four MoUs were signed to enhance defence collaboration, covering joint manufacturing, procurement, and sales of military equipment.
- Both countries agreed to expand military dialogue and intelligence sharing, strengthening their collective security efforts.
2. Economic and Trade Relations
- A Special Economic Zone (SEZ) will be established in Pakistan, where Turkish firms will invest in industrial production.
- Enhanced trade facilitation and the possibility of broadening the existing Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between the two nations.
- Turkish investors encouraged to explore opportunities in Pakistan’s flagship infrastructure projects.
3. Energy and Power Sector
- Collaboration on renewable energy projects, including wind and solar power, to help Pakistan meet its growing energy demands.
- Agreements in the mining sector to facilitate joint ventures and knowledge-sharing.
4. Education, Health, and Scientific Research
- MoUs signed to enhance scientific education and exchange programs between universities in Pakistan and Turkiye.
- Collaboration in pharmaceutical industries to ensure better access to quality medicines.
5. Cultural and Media Ties
- Agreements on cultural co-productions and collaboration in film and television to promote shared history and values.
- Enhanced media cooperation to strengthen the narrative of Pakistan-Turkiye relations on global platforms.
Political and Strategic Dimensions
Turkiye’s Support for Pakistan on Global Issues
During the joint press conference, President Erdogan reiterated Turkiye’s unwavering support for Pakistan on key international matters, particularly:
- The Kashmir dispute, calling for a resolution in accordance with United Nations resolutions.
- Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, commending its counterterrorism efforts.
- Continued solidarity with Palestine, advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Pakistan’s Gratitude and Commitment
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed appreciation for Turkiye’s unwavering support on Kashmir and its humanitarian assistance during natural disasters in Pakistan. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to swiftly implementing the agreements to strengthen relations further.
The Grand Reception: A Symbol of Brotherhood
Upon his arrival, President Erdogan received a grand welcome at Nur Khan Airbase. He was received by:
- President Asif Zardari
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
- First Lady Aseefa Bhutto
- Deputy Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar
- Defence Minister Khawaja Asif
- Information Minister Attaullah Tarar
Adding to the diplomatic warmth, two children dressed in traditional Pakistani attire presented flowers to Erdogan and First Lady Emine Erdogan.
Later, at Prime Minister’s House, Erdogan was accorded a guard of honor, followed by an aerial display by F-16 fighter jets, showcasing the strong military and strategic ties between the two nations.
Meeting with Pakistan’s Military Leadership
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir during his visit to Islamabad, reinforcing the strong military ties between the two nations.
The meeting emphasized defence collaboration, intelligence sharing, and joint military training programs. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regional security and counterterrorism efforts.
Discussions also covered joint defence production and procurement, strengthening Pakistan-Turkiye military cooperation. Erdogan praised Pakistan’s role in combating terrorism and maintaining regional stability.
General Munir acknowledged Turkiye’s support in defence modernization and strategic cooperation. The meeting highlighted the historic brotherhood and trust between the armed forces of both countries.
Future Prospects: What Lies Ahead?
Türkiye and Pakistan have signed 24 cooperation agreements to strengthen their bilateral ties, signaling a strong commitment to long-term cooperation.
1. Enhanced Bilateral Trade and Economic Growth
The goal of achieving $5 billion in bilateral trade can be realized through:
- Expansion of the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).
- Strengthening joint ventures in industrial zones.
- Greater market access for Pakistani and Turkish exporters.
- The SEZ project can transform Pakistan’s industrial landscape, bringing much-needed Turkish investments into the manufacturing sector.
2. Defence and Military Advancement
- The joint defence production will elevate Pakistan’s capabilities in aerospace, military hardware, and naval technology.
- Possible joint military exercises will further enhance interoperability between the armed forces of both nations.
3. Energy and Infrastructure Development
- Pakistan stands to benefit from Turkiye’s expertise in renewable energy, particularly in solar and hydroelectric power projects.
- Turkiye’s investment in Pakistan’s mining sector could provide a major boost to the country’s economic development.
4. Strategic Diplomatic Alliances
- Pakistan and Turkiye will continue their joint efforts at the UN, OIC, and other international forums to advocate for the rights of Kashmiris and Palestinians.
- As two influential Muslim-majority nations, their strategic alliance can play a crucial role in countering Islamophobia and promoting regional peace.
5. Strengthening Cultural and Educational Exchange
- Increased student exchange programs will bring Turkish and Pakistani students closer, fostering deeper cultural understanding.
- The collaboration in media and entertainment will showcase the shared history and values of the two nations on international platforms.
Conclusion: A Stronger Pakistan-Turkiye Bond
The 7th Pakistan-Turkiye High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council has laid the foundation for a new era of bilateral relations. The signing of 24 strategic agreements reflects the shared vision of both nations for economic growth, security cooperation, and diplomatic solidarity.
With a strengthened political, economic, and military alliance, Pakistan and Turkiye are well-positioned to emerge as stronger partners on the global stage. The commitment shown by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Erdogan ensures that this partnership will not only benefit the two nations but will also contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
As both countries move forward, their brotherly relations will continue to grow, bringing mutual prosperity and strategic strength to the people of Pakistan and Turkiye.
