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Express Tribune
4 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
Pakistan, Turkiye weigh aerospace partnership
Pakistan and Turkiye sought to deepen their defence cooperation amid regional instability as the two sides, in the level talks here on Wednesday, vowed to increase the bilateral trade to $5 billion. Turkish Foreign Minister Fida Hakan and Defence Minister Yasar Guler, who arrived in Islamabad in Tuesday night, held a series of meetings with Pakistani civil and military leaders. Turkiye has emerged a strong supporter of Pakistan in the wake of recent conflict with India. The presence of Turkish foreign and defence ministers in Islamabad highlighted the deepening cooperation and increased high-level exchanges between the two countries. While Foreign Minister Hakan, who was also joined by the Defence Minister Guler, held formal talks with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at the Foreign Ministry, they met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister's Office, where Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, National Security Adviser and Direcotr General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt General Asim Malik and other senior officials were also present. The presence of top civil and military leadership of Pakistan highlighted the importance of close ties with Turkey. Welcoming the Turkish delegation, according to an official handout, the prime minister underscored the longstanding fraternal ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, saying that there relations remain deeply rooted in shared history, culture, and mutual respect. He expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory of bilateral relations and reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering commitment to further strengthening cooperation with Turkiye in diverse fields, including trade, investment, technology, and defence. Recalling his interactions with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during the year, including the most recent meeting between the two leaders on the margins of the 17th ECO Summit, Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan's firm resolve to transform Pak-Turkiye ties into a strategic partnership in the days to come. Welcoming the convening of the joint commission meeting, co-chaired by Dar and Fidan, the prime minister expressed the hope that the bilateral relations between the two countries would attain further momentum, leading to bolstering of cooperation in multifaceted areas. While reiterating the commitment of the both countries to continue their strong and unwavering support for each other's core interests, the prime minister emphasised the need for closer coordination between the two sides amidst the fast evolving regional and global environment, particularly in the context of Gaza and Iran. He once again expressed his deepest gratitude to the Turkish nation and leadership for their steadfast support to Pakistan during the recent Indian aggression. The prime minister stressed the need for concerted efforts by both sides to enhance the bilateral trade to the mutually agreed target of $5 billion. Highlighting Pakistan's investor-friendly policies, he invited Turkish companies to expand their investment footprint in Pakistan and invited Turkish side to share its expertise to assist in Pakistan's structural reforms, economic growth and development efforts. Meanwhile, at a joint press conference with Foreign Minister Dar, Fidan underlined the ongoing efforts to boost the bilateral trade volume to $5 billion. He noted that both countries were evaluating cooperation mechanisms in sectors such as mining, natural gas, oil, and rare earth elements. "In this context, the agreement signed in April between Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) and Pakistan's national oil companies represents a highly significant step forward," Fidan said. "This is one of the outcomes of the more institutionalised approach we are working to establish," he added. Dar said that Islamabad and Ankara have agreed to bolster cooperation in a string of areas, including economy, defence industry, energy and infrastructure. Lauding the Turkish defence industry, Dar said that Islamabad wishes to further strengthen its ongoing strategic and defence industries cooperation and promotion of peace and stability in the region. The two sides are "actively" engaged in different activities, including capacity building in counterterrorism, said Dar. Turkish companies will also be participating in the privatisation of distribution companies in the power sector, he added. The two sides, Dar continued, were pursuing the establishment of a special economic zone dedicated to Turkish entrepreneurs in Karachi and Istanbul. "We are actively following up on benefiting from Turkish experience and expertise in shipbreaking and storage and efficient use of agricultural water," Dar said. He said Islamabad and Ankara agreed to revive the long-dormant joint ministerial commission after a hiatus of 11 years, which will be co-chaired by Pakistan's Commerce Minister Jam Kamal and Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler. "All this work will lay a solid foundation for the eighth high-level Strategic Cooperation Council," which will be held next year in Turkiye, he added. In a separate engagement, Turkish Defence Minister Guler met with Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu at the Air Headquarters to assess the state of bilateral defence cooperation and discuss emerging regional threats. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), both sides agreed to set up joint working groups to deepen collaboration in aerospace technologies, advanced training, and new domains of warfare. Guler praised the operational readiness of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), particularly during its recent conflict with India, and expressed interest in expanding industry-to-industry partnerships. He also emphasised the importance of joint ventures in disruptive technologies, including unmanned aerial systems, advanced avionics and pilot exchange programs. Both sides pledged to enhance joint air exercises and finalise plans for more intensive training cooperation. The ISPR said that the meeting reflected the "shared commitment of both the brotherly nations to enhance strategic cooperation, solidify defence ties and promote lasting institutional linkages between the Armed Forces of Pakistan and Turkiye".
Express Tribune
05-07-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
ECO's way forward
Listen to article Attaining proactivity in regional cooperation is becoming a sine qua non as distractions continue to haunt geopolitics. The 17th ECO Summit in Azerbaijan's city of Khankendi took a leap forward as it called for buoying understanding among the member states to overcome bilateral frictions and ensure that geo-economics takes roots. Pakistan flagged the Iran-Israel war, the adamant attitude of India, especially the IWT's unilateral suspension, and the backlash of terrorism from Afghanistan as obstacles hampering regional serenity and development. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored that the 10-nation Eurasian bloc offers the 'best hope' for a unified response, and there should not be any looking back. Pakistan also underlined the necessity of quality development in relevance with climate change considerations. It also proposed developing low-emission corridors, ECO-wide carbon market platforms and a regional disaster resistance system. It's high time the cobweb of railways, roads and waterways, which have successfully been laid down across the region, came to benefit the common man in terms of employment, cheap products and a semblance of growth. So is the case with energy channels that are still in limbo, like the IP gas pipeline, TAPI, CASA-1000 and the trans-Afghan railway connectivity. The point that some of the states are mulling a 'military alliance' in the region has been promptly negated by Pakistan, as it hopes India will give up its confrontational policy and make SAARC a viable entity. Peace between Pakistan and India is indispensable if regional cooperation is to materialise. The potential could be gauged from the fact that according to SBP, imports from India totalled $211.5 million in the first 11 months of FY25; and in May alone when the conflict broke out, imports stood at $15 million. The India-based Global Trade Research Initiative has also reported recently that India's unofficial exports to Pakistan are estimated at $10 billion annually, routed primarily through Dubai, Colombo and Singapore. The need is to get it straight for the collective good of the region.
Express Tribune
05-07-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
India can't turn off the tap, warns PM
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif meets Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi, Azerbaijan. PHOTO: ONLINE Listen to article Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday urged the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) member states to deepen collaboration in response to the pressing regional and global challenges, particularly climate change and geopolitical instability. Addressing the 17th ECO summit, the prime minister underscored the urgent need for collective action as ECO member states struggle with the severe consequences of climate change, from melting glaciers and desertification to extreme weather events and declining agricultural productivity. "These challenges threaten the food security and livelihoods of millions. Pakistan remains among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change," he said, recalling the catastrophic 2022 floods that displaced over 33 million people in Pakistan. The prime minister also drew attention to what he called the "weaponization of water" by India, referencing New Delhi's violations of the Indus Waters Treaty and the recent ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration. "This violation is completely unacceptable. Indus waters are a lifeline for Pakistan's 240 million people. India's actions amount to aggression." He categorically said that under no circumstances, India could not be allowed to pursue this dangerous path that will amount to an act of aggression against people of Pakistan. Just last week, he said several lives were tragically lost in the affected districts of Pakistan. "Pakistan on its part has undertaken a series of climate related policy initiatives and is aggressively pursuing of 4F plans focusing on resilience, recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction," he added. The prime minister said in this regard Pakistan proposed the development of low emissions corridors and regional disaster resilience system. "A dedicated framework to mobilize climate finance along with regional clean energy corridors and eco-tourism initiatives can further drive inclusive sustainable growth creating green jobs, especially for youth and women and supporting livelihoods," he said. Condemning the Israel's recent strike on Iran, the prime minister called it "unlawful, unjustified and uncalled for," and expressed deep condolences to the Iranian people. "Pakistan strongly condemns this act of Israeli aggression We pray for a speedy recovery of our injured brothers and sisters in Iran." Furthermore, he said the unprovoked and reckless Indian hostility directed towards Pakistan after an unfortunate incident in the Indian-Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) was yet another attempt to destabilize regional peace. "The world witnessed the steadfast resolve of our valiant armed forces under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir," the prime minister said. He also appreciated the support and solidarity extended to Pakistan by the brotherly ECO members states in the aftermath of Indian aggression earlier this year. He strongly condemned the Israel's barbarism in Gaza saying, "Pakistan stands firmly against those who perpetrated barbaric act against innocent people anywhere in the world whether in Gaza or IIOJK or Iran". On the economic front, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need to operationalize long-pending agreements under ECO Vision 2025, especially the ECO Trade Agreement (ECOTA) and transport corridors, connecting member states. He referenced ECO's origins as the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD), a partnership between Pakistan, Iran, and Turkey in the 1960s, as a historic blueprint for present-day integration. "Promotion of trade and investment is key to achieving common goals of regional connectivity, energy security, and economic growth." The prime minister thanked ECO member states for designating Lahore as the ECO Tourism Capital for 2027, inviting all delegates to experience Pakistan's rich cultural heritage. "Lahore, the cultural heart of Pakistan, will enthrall all who visit us. We extend a warm invitation to all member states." Turkish President Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met with President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi and discussed matters of mutual interest. The two leaders engaged in a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and exchanged views on key regional developments. The two leaders reiterated their resolve and commitment to bringing about a meaningful progress in relations between the two countries, in all important sectors. Both leaders emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation in trade, defense, energy, connectivity, and investment sectors. To this end, the two countries agreed to exchange high level delegations so as to ensure early finalization of the understandings reached between the two leaders. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering commitment to working closely with Turkiye in advancing their shared goals of peace, stability, and sustainable development throughout the region. Iran president Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met with President of Iran Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian wherein he reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering solidarity with the people and Government of Iran. During the meeting held on the sidelines of 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi city of Azerbaijan, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan's strong commitment to continue working closely with Iran for peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy. During the meeting, both leaders reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation across all areas and expressed satisfaction over the progress made on decisions taken during their last meeting for further strengthening of Pakistan-Iran relations. The two leaders also discussed the evolving regional situation in the wake of the Israel's illegitimate aggression against Iran. Prime Minister Shehbaz appreciated President Pezeshkian's leadership and lauded Iran's decision to reach a ceasefire during recent crisis. President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan's strong diplomatic support to Iran, including at the international forums, during the crisis and thanked him for Pakistan's vital role in de-escalating the conflict. The prime minister requested the Iranian President to convey his warm greetings and good wishes to Supreme Leader of Iran Ali Khamenei. Azerbaijan president Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the sidelines of Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Summit in Khankendi, Azerbaijan. During the meeting, the two leaders agreed to enhance their cooperation in the fields of trade and investment while expressing satisfaction over the progress made regarding the investment prospects. Both leaders reiterated their resolve to strengthen the economic partnership, especially Azerbaijan's investment in Pakistan. The prime minister is visiting Azerbaijan to lead Pakistan's delegation in the 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi, Azerbaijan, held on 3-4 July, 2025. On the sidelines of the Summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a productive bilateral meeting with the President of Azerbaijan where he congratulated him for hosting the 17th ECO Summit in an exemplary manner. The prime minister also conveyed his gratitude to President Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan for the gracious hospitality extended to him and his delegation during his recent visit to Lachin, Azerbaijan, from May 27-29, 2025. The prime minister thanked President Ilham on Azerbaijan's steadfast support extended to Pakistan during the recent conflict with India. He stated that Pakistan had also extended consistent support to Azerbaijan in challenging times. The prime minister reaffirmed that the recent interactions between the leadership of both countries had helped in making the relationship ever stronger. He also reiterated his invitation to President Ilham to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.
Business Recorder
05-07-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Regional peace: PM reaffirms commitment to work closely with Iran
KHANKENDI (Azerbaijan): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met with President of Iran Dr Masoud Pezeshkian wherein he reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering solidarity with the people and Government of Iran. During the meeting held on the sidelines of 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi city of Azerbaijan, the PM reaffirmed Pakistan's strong commitment to continue working closely with Iran for peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy. During the meeting, both leaders reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation across all areas and expressed satisfaction over the progress made on decisions taken during their last meeting for further strengthening of Pakistan-Iran relations. The two leaders also discussed the evolving regional situation in the wake of the Israel's illegitimate aggression against Iran. PM Shehbaz appreciated President Pezeshkian's leadership and lauded Iran's decision to reach a ceasefire during recent crisis. President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan's strong diplomatic support to Iran, including at the international forums, during the crisis and thanked him for Pakistan's vital role in de-escalating the conflict.
Business Recorder
05-07-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Calls for regional unity: At ECO summit PM condemns Israeli, Indian aggression
KHANKENDI: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday urged the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) member states to deepen collaboration in response to the pressing regional and global challenges, particularly climate change and geopolitical instability. Addressing 17th ECO Summit, the prime minister underscored the urgent need for collective action as ECO member states struggle with the severe consequences of climate change, from melting glaciers and desertification to extreme weather events and declining agricultural productivity. 'These challenges threaten the food security and livelihoods of millions. Pakistan remains among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change,' he said, recalling the catastrophic 2022 floods that displaced over 33 million people in Pakistan. PM Shehbaz departs for Azerbaijan to attend ECO summit Just last week, he said several lives were tragically lost in the affected districts of Pakistan. 'Pakistan on its part has undertaken a series of climate related policy initiatives and is aggressively pursuing of 4F plans focusing on resilience, recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction,' he added. The prime minister said in this regard Pakistan proposed the development of low emissions corridors and regional disaster resilience system. 'A dedicated framework to mobilize climate finance along with regional clean energy corridors and eco-tourism initiatives can further drive inclusive sustainable growth creating green jobs, especially for youth and women and supporting livelihoods,' he said. Condemning the Israel's recent strike on Iran, the prime minister called it 'unlawful, unjustified and uncalled for,' and expressed deep condolences to the Iranian people. 'Pakistan strongly condemns this act of Israeli aggression… We pray for a speedy recovery of our injured brothers and sisters in Iran.' Furthermore, he said the unprovoked and reckless Indian hostility directed towards Pakistan after an unfortunate incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) was yet another attempt to destabilize regional peace. 'The world witnessed the steadfast resolve of our valiant Armed Forces under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir,' the prime minister said. He also appreciated the support and solidarity extended to Pakistan by the brotherly ECO members states in the aftermath of Indian aggression earlier this year. He strongly condemned the Israel's barbarism in Gaza saying 'Pakistan stands firmly against those who perpetrated barbaric act against innocent people anywhere in the world whether in Gaza or IIOJK or Iran'. The prime minister also drew attention to what he called the 'weaponization of water' by India, referencing New Delhi's violations of the Indus Waters Treaty and the recent ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration. 'This violation is completely unacceptable. The Indus waters are a lifeline for Pakistan's 240 million people. India's actions amount to aggression.'
