Pakistan’s PM Sharif praises Erdogan’s leadership during Türkiye visit

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s leadership during a joint press conference in Ankara on Tuesday, describing Türkiye’s recent achievements as “the story of a great struggle.”

Delighted to meet my dear brother, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in Ankara today. @RTErdogan
Appreciated his leadership and foresight in guiding Türkiye to a path of continued progress and prosperity.
We reviewed the fast-paced implementation of decisions taken during His… pic.twitter.com/4juzbhIH6E

— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 22, 2025

Addressing Erdogan at the Presidential Complex, Sharif said, “Your role in leading the Turkish people to a glorious future is truly the story of a great struggle. But it is also a powerful inspiration for all of us.”

“A great leader is not only courageous but also someone who wins people’s hearts. You represent that greatness,” he added.

“Pakistan and Türkiye share a unique and historic bond, deeply etched in the hearts of our people. United by trust and shared values, we carry a common vision for peace, progress, and prosperity—a partnership that has stood the test of time and continues to grow stronger with each passing day,” Sharif said on the social media platform X.

Confidence in Türkiye’s economic and social progress

Sharif expressed confidence in Türkiye’s continued development under Erdogan’s leadership. “I am sure that under your leadership, the people of Türkiye will reach the highest levels of progress and prosperity,” he said.

Referring to previous Turkish support during natural disasters in Pakistan, Sharif recalled Türkiye’s swift humanitarian response to the 2011 and 2022 floods.

He highlighted Ankara’s contributions beyond basic aid, including the construction of field hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers.

Sharif thanked Türkiye for its “consistent solidarity,” stating that Ankara’s support was remembered fondly by the Pakistani people.

Focus on economic growth and strategic sectors

Sharif said his visit to Türkiye, following the 7th High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council between the two countries, provided an opportunity to review progress and chart a forward path in economic collaboration.

He emphasized the importance of practical cooperation in energy, IT, infrastructure, mining, and agriculture, and projected the bilateral trade volume to reach $5 billion.

Security and defense ties

Sharif described defense and security collaboration as a key pillar of Pakistan-Türkiye relations and thanked Ankara for its continued support in counterterrorism efforts.

“I want to thank Türkiye for its consistent support in our counterterrorism operations,” he stated, referencing a recent attack in Balochistan where militants targeted a civilian train.

He said terrorist groups such as the BLA and TTP were behind the incident and stressed the need for closer cooperation, both bilaterally and globally.

“It’s time to combine and strengthen our efforts. Only through deeper global cooperation in counterterrorism can the world breathe easier and live in peace,” he said.

Shared position on Palestine and Gaza crisis

During his remarks, Sharif addressed the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for a ceasefire and the unimpeded delivery of aid.

“We condemn the monstrous genocide and the killing of over 50,000 Palestinians. We urgently call for a ceasefire and immediate humanitarian assistance,” Sharif stated.

“The only just, comprehensive, and lasting solution is the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital within the 1967 borders,” he added.

He also thanked Erdogan for Türkiye’s support regarding the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.