Islamabad: Ambassador of Turkiye to Pakistan Dr. Mehmet Pacaci paid a courtesy visit to the Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives. He congratulated Minister Ahsan Iqbal on assumption of his office. During the meeting, he informed Minister that High Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) will soon hold its upcoming meeting between the two countries.
Pakistan and Turkiye have a long history of warm friendship and both countries have stood by each other during disasters, such as floods, earthquakes etc. The minister expressed that Pakistan appreciates the support extended by Turkiye to Pakistan during the floods of 2022. Turkish Ambassador also acknowledged the support of Pakistan during the earthquake last month, which damaged 11 provinces in Turkey, resulting in more than 50,000 deaths.
Minister Iqbal also shared that Pakistan and Turkiye should explore areas where both countries can benefit from each other’s strengths including joint production of export items to third countries as well as cultural cooperation in arts and media. He urged on the idea of seeking Turkish assistance to set up an industry in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) for exporting items to Europe. Since labour cost in Pakistan is lower than that in Turkiye, such a joint venture will benefit both countries.
Both sides expressed deep concern at Islamophobic attacks against Muslims across the globe and reaffirmed their support in fighting the scourge of terrorism.
