Erdogan noted that he last visited Pakistan in February to participate in the 7th meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council. He explained that the mutual contacts between the two sides are an indication of the distinguished level of relations between the two countries.
He added that Türkiye and Pakistan are countries with a strong will to combat terrorism, affirming his country's support for Islamabad in its fight against terrorism. He stated that he and Sharif discussed bilateral relations and regional and international issues today.
Erdogan noted that Turkey and Pakistan signed 25 cooperation agreements during his visit to Pakistan last February in various fields, including trade, water resources, agriculture, energy, culture, family and social services, science, banking, education, defense, and health.
He added that cooperation between Turkey and Pakistan contributes significantly to peace and stability in the region. He emphasized the convergence of positions between Turkey and Pakistan in almost all areas, praising Pakistan's firm stance on the Palestinian issue. He said that Pakistan is one of the countries that has demonstrated the strongest response to the Israeli genocide in the Gaza Strip.
The Turkish President noted that his country and Pakistan have consistently worked together to support the Palestinian cause at the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and other forums, emphasizing their determination to continue these initiatives in the coming period.
He added, "We will continue to work together to establish an independent, sovereign Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital." Erdogan indicated that they will take steps toward cooperation between Türkiye, Pakistan, and Azerbaijan.
For his part, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif told Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan: “Your role in leading the Turkish people to a bright future is truly a story of great struggle.”
Sherif noted that a great leader is not satisfied with mere "courage," but also with winning the hearts of the people. He stated that President Erdoğan embodies this quality, indicating that his success in leading Turkey and its people represents a great encouragement to them as well.
"Your struggle over the past years has strengthened Türkiye's economy. It has also transformed it into a prosperous society and a country with strong diplomatic influence," Sherif said.
Sherif pointed out that the Turkish people have demonstrated remarkable ability to overcome natural disasters, in addition to their resilience in complex geopolitical conflicts.
On Tuesday, Erdogan met with Sharif at the presidential complex and hosted a private dinner in his honor. Delegations from both countries also attended the dinner.
Earlier on Tuesday, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in the Turkish capital, Ankara, on an official visit at the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.