LAHORE - Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met with Turkish envoy Irfan Naziroglu on Sunday as she reaffirmed the deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and Türkiye expressing profound gratitude for Türkiye’s steadfast support amid regional tensions.
In her remarks, the chief minister lauded Ankara’s “unequivocal solidarity” with Pakistan in the face of Indian aggression, emphasizing that Türkiye has consistently stood by Pakistan on diplomatic, moral, and strategic fronts. “Pakistan is grateful for Türkiye’s unwavering solidarity,” she said. “President Erdogan’s words — ‘we are with Pakistan in good and bad times’ — are engraved in our hearts.”
The meeting touched upon a wide range of shared interests, including trade cooperation, regional peace, and cultural affinity. Maryam Nawaz highlighted the enduring bond between the two nations, remarking, “Pakistan and Türkiye are not just allies; we are brothers, united by faith, culture, and a shared history.”
She praised the Turkish leadership and people for their consistent support and hospitality, recalling her recent visit to the Anatolian Diplomacy Forum. “I am extremely grateful for the warm reception by the Turkish government and First Lady Emine Erdogan,” she said.
On the economic front, the Chief Minister voiced strong optimism about deepening trade relations between Punjab and Türkiye. She noted the signing of 24 bilateral agreements during the 7th High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council as a major step forward. “Punjab is fully prepared to transform this enduring friendship into an economic movement,” she declared. Pointing to Punjab’s robust potential, she said, “The province offers unparalleled export capabilities, investor-friendly infrastructure, and vast opportunities for Turkish businesses.” She also underscored the significance of religious and cultural harmony as a pillar of the two countries’ bilateral relations.
“Pakistan-Türkiye relations have withstood the test of time and now promise even greater strength and success,” she concluded. “We are committed to taking this partnership to new heights.”