PM Shehbaz Sharif, Turkish President Erdogan Hold Key Talks on Sidelines of Ashgabat Conference

Leaders reaffirm deep-rooted Pakistan–Turkey ties, agree to expand cooperation in defense, energy, investment, and regional connectivity.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif continued his diplomatic engagements on the sidelines of the Ashgabat International Conference, holding an important meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss bilateral, regional, and global issues.

Shehbaz met Erdogan as part of his visit to Turkmenistan. The two leaders discussed global and regional developments, with a special focus on Pakistan–Turkey bilateral relations. Both sides agreed that relations between Pakistan and Turkey are rooted in shared values, mutual trust, and a common desire for prosperity.

Leaders reaffirm historic and brotherly ties

The two leaders emphasized that the historically deep and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Turkey hold great importance. They agreed that these longstanding ties form a strong foundation for expanding cooperation in multiple fields.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed satisfaction over the continuous high-level contacts between the Pakistani and Turkish leadership throughout the year.

Both leaders reaffirmed their determination to further strengthen cooperation in defense, investment, energy, and other priority sectors. Shehbaz stressed that decisions taken by the Pak–Turkey Joint Ministerial Commission would be fully implemented.

He welcomed Turkey’s growing interest and investment in Pakistan’s energy, petroleum, and mining sectors. He also emphasized the timely implementation of recent bilateral memorandums of understanding and agreements signed between the two countries. He also invited Turkey to participate in Pakistan’s power distribution companies.

Prime Minister Sharif said ministerial-level exchanges between Pakistan and Turkey would take place soon to advance cooperation in these areas.

Regional connectivity, rail link highlighted

The premier underlined the importance of regional connectivity for economic growth and stability. He specifically stressed the need to restore the Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul rail network to enhance trade and people-to-people links.

Both leaders agreed that improved connectivity would further strengthen regional integration and bilateral cooperation.

Following the forum, Shehbaz remained the center of attention among world leaders during his visit to Turkmenistan, as he held informal meetings with several leaders, including Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon.

He also met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and held an informal interaction with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

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Earlier today, the premier arrived at the Neutrality Monument in Ashgabat alongside world leaders participating in the Permanent Neutrality Anniversary Forum. The monument represents Turkmenistan’s internationally recognized policy of permanent neutrality.

During the ceremony, the prime minister and other global leaders laid flowers at the monument to pay tribute to this principle, which has shaped Turkmenistan’s foreign policy for three decades.

30 years of Turkmenistan’s neutrality

The PM attended the official ceremony held to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s neutrality. Leaders from different countries continue to arrive in Ashgabat to take part in the anniversary forum.

The event highlights Turkmenistan’s role in promoting peace, trust, and neutrality at the regional and international levels.

President of Turkmenistan, Sardar Berdimuhamedow, warmly welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the global forum. President Berdimuhamedow also received other visiting world leaders attending the Permanent Neutrality Anniversary Forum.