Shehbaz and Erdogan discuss regional, world issues in Istanbul

ISTANBUL: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on Sunday, as both sides discussed a wide range of issues – from bilateral relations to regional and world developments.

Turkiye has strong ties with Pakistan, both being largely Muslim countries and sharing historical connections.

Earlier, Erdogan’s communications director Fahrettin Altun said on X that they would discuss bilateral relations, regional and international issues, including the fight against terrorism.

Meanwhile, Erdogan’s office said Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Defence Minister Yasar Guler also attended the meeting.

On the other hand, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant to the PM Tariq Fatemi as well as Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir are accompanying the prime minister during this important visit.

Besides the meeting between Shehbaz and Erdogan in which their close aides were present, the two sides also held delegation-level talks.

THE TOUR

Shehbaz has left Islamabad on a four-nation tour from May 25 to 30 with Turkiye being a first stop. He also visit Iran, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan, as the government is trying to promote Pakistan’s case in the backdrop of recent Indian aggression.

Earlier in May, Erdogan expressed solidarity with Pakistan after India conducted military strikes in response to an attack in Indian-Occupied Kashmir. The clashes between the nuclear-armed neighbours were the worst in more than two decades.

Read more: India revokes Celebi security clearance over Turkish support for Pakistan

Ankara also maintains cordial ties with India but after Erdogan’s expression of support for Pakistan, small Indian grocery shops and major online fashion retailers boycotted Turkish products.