Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif: Turkey's success is our success

Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif emphasized the fraternal bonds between Turkey and Pakistan during a joint press conference with President Erdogan. Sharif stated, "The relationship between Pakistan and Turkey can be described as two hearts, one soul. The solidarity between the two nations has been evident in times of hardship." Sharif expressed his gratitude for the hospitality shown by President Erdogan, saying, "Visiting the magnificent city of Istanbul, where history meets modernity and the rich cultures of the East and West coexist, is always a great pleasure." He also referenced Yunus Emre's phrase "The friend's home is in the hearts, I came to make hearts" to highlight the special place Turkey holds in the hearts of the Pakistani people.

No words can better describe the relationship between the two nations. Pakistan has always found a home in the hearts of the Turkish people, just as Turkey has a special place in the hearts of every Pakistani. This unique friendship has been shaped by our shared history, faith, mutual sacrifices, and an unwavering sense of brotherhood. Even before the establishment of our modern states, our people stood shoulder to shoulder at pivotal moments in history.

Sharif praised Erdogan for enhancing Turkey's national prestige and self-confidence, maintaining the country's independent voice, and elevating Turkey's position as one of the most effective countries in regional and global matters. He stated, "Pakistan greatly values his friendship, wisdom, consistent guidance, and support."

Among the leaders of today, few have demonstrated the vision, courage, and unwavering resolve that President Erdogan has shown during his over two decades of dynamic leadership. Under his wise and prudent leadership, Turkey has undergone an extraordinary transformation economically, technologically, and strategically.

Sharif noted, "The economic partnership between Pakistan and Turkey has entered a new phase under President Erdogan's capable leadership." He added, "We are pleased with the increasing momentum in bilateral trade, investment, and industrial cooperation, and we have reviewed the concrete steps to be taken to realize the full potential of our economic partnership. The enormous goodwill reserve between the two countries provides us with a unique and ideal opportunity to achieve our mutually agreed target of $5 billion in bilateral trade."

The decisions we made today will not remain on paper. These decisions will translate into more trade, stronger investments, deeper strategic cooperation, and most importantly, a better future for our people. I assure my dear brother President Erdogan of Pakistan's unwavering commitment to further strengthening this unique partnership. Turkey's success is our success, and Pakistan's progress is Turkey's progress.

Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to standing by Turkey on the issue of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and expressed deep gratitude for Turkey's principled and unwavering support for the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination.