Turkiye‘s foreign and defence ministers are scheduled to visit Pakistan on Wednesday for talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif focused on strengthening bilateral relations, addressing regional developments, and enhancing cooperation in the defence industry, a Turkish diplomatic source said on Tuesday.
Turkiye has strong ties with Pakistan and expressed solidarity with it during its military conflict with India in May, angering India.
During the visit, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will express Turkiye’s desire to deepen ties in every field and offer Ankara’s support in taking steps toward regional peace, the source said.
Fidan will stress the countries “need to strengthen their cooperation in the defence industry,” the source said.
Ankara also has cordial ties with India, but after its support for Pakistan, small Indian grocery shops and major online fashion retailers boycotted Turkish products, while New Delhi also cancelled Turkiye-based aviation service provider Celebi’s clearance over “national security” reasons.
Strengthening Ties
Turkiye and Pakistan are reinforcing their long-standing bilateral relationship, marked by deepening political, economic, and defence cooperation.
The two nations, both members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), have steadily expanded ties over recent years, underscoring their shared strategic interests and cultural affinity.
In a significant display of solidarity, Turkiye openly supported Pakistan during its military and diplomatic standoff with India in May 2025, drawing regional and international attention.
Ankara’s vocal backing came at a critical moment when tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi escalated following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack.
Turkish leaders called for restraint but emphasised Pakistan’s right to defend its sovereignty, framing the conflict within the broader context of unresolved issues in Kashmir.
The Turkish government also expressed support for Pakistan’s stance at international forums, including the United Nations and OIC platforms.
Beyond crisis moments, Turkiye and Pakistan are actively working on enhancing defence industry collaboration, energy partnerships, and trade linkages.
Military-to-military ties have grown through joint exercises and defence procurement deals, including Turkish drone technology and naval support.
(With inputs from Reuters and IBNS)
