Islamabad: Dr. Irfan Neziroglu, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye to Pakistan, paid a courtesy call on Senator Irfan Siddiqui, Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, at Islamabad.
The meeting entailed an in-depth exchange of views on the state of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkiye, with particular focus on inter-parliamentary cooperation, diplomatic engagement, and evolving regional and global dynamics. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further enhancing mutual collaboration across diverse sectors of common interest.
Senator Irfan Siddique emphasized that Pakistan deeply values its longstanding and brotherly ties with Turkiye anchored in shared history, cultural affinity, and mutual trust. He also highlighted the strong and enduring relationship between the leadership and people both the countries.
Ambassador Neziroglu, expressing his sincere appreciation for the warm sentiments extended by the Senator, highlighted the historical depth of Pakistan-Turkiye relations spread on more than a century. He stressed the importance of further elevating bilateral cooperation to unprecedented levels.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui said that the reports of Indian authorities targeting Turkish companies and attempting to disrupt their operations were deeply regrettable and reflect an attempt to weaponise trade for political interests.
Both sides also voiced serious concern over the continued genocide by Israeli forces against the innocent people of Gaza, condemning the loss of thousands of lives including women and children. They urged the world, in particular UNO, to take concrete steps immediately to stop the ongoing bloodbath. They reiterated to raise voice on all international platforms to advocate for peace, justice, and the protection of human rights.
Senator Siddiqui noted that the shared religious, moral, and cultural values between Pakistan and Turkiye provide a strong foundation for enhanced cooperation in areas such as defence, security, education, trade, cultural exchange, and the promotion of traditional arts including calligraphy.
The recent regional developments, including the escalation of tensions between Pakistan and India, were also discussed. Senator Siddiqui expressed gratitude to the Turkish government for its unwavering support and solidarity with Pakistan during times of adversity. He emphasized that an enduring peace is not possible unless the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir resolved according to the relevant resolutions of UNSC and aspirations of the Kashmiris. The Ambassador assured that Turkiye will continue to support Pakistan's principled and just stance on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir.
Both dignitaries reaffirmed their resolve to further deepen bilateral engagement and continue building upon the longstanding and cordial relationship between Pakistan and the Republic of Turkiye.