Turkish ministers in Pakistan to boost security, counter-terrorism cooperation

• Two sides to discuss "key matters of mutual interest": FO
• Visit likely to boost cooperation in security, counter-terrorism. 
• FM Fidan, Defence czar Güler to meet civil-military leadership.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Turkiye share a rich history of bilateral cooperation in various domains and in order to further strengthen brotherly ties, a high-level Turkish delegation touched down in Pakistan late Tuesday night.

The delegation comprising Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Defence Minister Yasar Güler, both of whom arrived separately, was welcomed by the Foreign Office's Additional Secretary (West Asia), Ambassador Syed Ali Asad Gillani.

"Key matters of mutual interest will be discussed. The visit highlights the close brotherly ties between Pakistan and Türkiye, founded on shared values, mutual respect, and a long history of friendship," the FO said in a statement.

During their official engagements in Pakistan, as per The News, important issues of mutual interest will be discussed.

The visit reflects the close and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, rooted in shared history, culture, and mutual trust.

The delegation is also expected to discuss measures to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation.

FM Fidan visited Pakistan last on May 18, which was also his first official visit, when he met with the top civilian and military leadership.

Diplomatic sources in Islamabad and Turkiye say the delegation will spend a busy day and call on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and FM Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir.

"Türkiye and Pakistan enjoy close bilateral relations in the fields of economy, trade and defence. The high-level visit is expected to advance bilateral cooperation in the fields of security and counter-terrorism," said the Turkish media.

The Palestinian issue will top the different issues that the two sides will bring to the table besides reviewing the progress of the February High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting.

Both delegations would also discuss measures to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation at a time when Turkiye has emerged as Pakistan’s second-largest arms supplier.

"Ankara fulfilled 11% of Islamabad's total arms needs in 2023 by exporting weaponry and ammunition worth $21 million," pointed out a Turkish report.

Of great significance is the fact that Turkiye was not only the first country to express solidarity with Pakistan during the Indian attack, but throughout the conflict, Ankara kept voicing its support, something which had greatly upset India.