Pakistan, Turkiye Pledge to Strengthen Bilateral Ties at Istanbul Expo

Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with Turkiye’s Defense Minister, Yasar Guler, on Wednesday during the International Istanbul Expo. The meeting highlighted both countries’ commitment to deepening cooperation in various sectors.

Deepening Cooperation Between Pakistan and Turkiye

Yasar Guler expressed his appreciation for Mohsin Naqvi’s participation in the expo, emphasizing how such events contribute significantly to enhancing global partnerships. During the meeting, Naqvi extended an official invitation to Guler for the upcoming Ideas Expo in Pakistan, a major event focused on showcasing regional innovation.

The discussion revolved around mutual interests, particularly the need to increase trade and strengthen cooperation between the two nations. Both ministers acknowledged the positive trajectory of their bilateral relationship, agreeing on the importance of exploring new avenues for collaboration.

Boosting Trade and Agriculture Cooperation

One of the key points raised during the meeting was the potential to increase Pakistan’s meat exports to Turkiye. The Turkish government pledged its support in facilitating these exports, signaling strong interest in expanding trade ties between the two countries. Mohsin Naqvi welcomed this development, emphasizing the importance of agriculture in the broader economic relationship between Pakistan and Turkiye.

Naqvi also highlighted the value of regular high-level visits to ensure continuous dialogue and cooperation. “Building a strong foundation for bilateral collaboration requires ongoing interaction,” he remarked, underlining the importance of sustained engagement to solidify ties.

Significance of the International Expo

Naqvi praised the Turkish government for successfully organizing the International Expo, which he described as an important platform for countries to showcase their progress and innovation. The event, he noted, plays a crucial role in promoting international cooperation and enhancing bilateral partnerships.

Senior officials from both countries, including Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkiye, Dr. Yusuf Jind, were present during the meeting. The high-level nature of the discussions underscored the importance of the visit in strengthening the strategic and economic ties between Pakistan and Turkiye.

Pakistan Air Force Leads Multinational Exercises

In parallel to the diplomatic meeting, the Pakistan Air Force is leading multinational air exercises, dubbed Indus Shield 2024, alongside key allies such as Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. These exercises aim to bolster strategic military partnerships and enhance operational capabilities among participating nations.

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Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir is expected to observe the exercises and receive briefings on the scope and objectives of the operations. This initiative reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen military cooperation and improve readiness to address shared security challenges in the region.

Overall, the visit to the International Expo and the ongoing military exercises demonstrate Pakistan’s active engagement in both diplomatic and defense initiatives with key regional allies.