Islamabad, Turkey Strengthen Ties, Aim $5 Billion Trade
The agreement to increase trade to $5 billion and the signing of 24 agreements to boost cooperation mark a significant step forward in Pakistan-Turkey relations, with a focus on trade, tourism, and regional issues, and the gift of the Togg T10X electric car symbolizes the growing friendship between the two nations.
Pakistan and Turkey have agreed to increase their trade relationship to $5 billion, marking a significant step forward in their cooperation, with 24 agreements signed to boost collaboration in various sectors, including defense, commerce, aviation, energy, and technology.
The two countries have strengthened their partnership in recent times, with a focus on enhancing trade and investment ties. Despite Pakistan's current exports to Turkey standing at only $500 million, there are many untapped avenues for cooperation, particularly in trade and tourism, which could be developed further. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on Turkish investors to invest in Pakistan, highlighting the need for collaboration between the private sectors of the two countries.
The countries have taken a united stance on several regional issues, including the Palestinian cause, supporting an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, and denouncing the US initiative to dislodge Gazans from the enclave. They have also established three new joint standing committees on security, health, and technology to further boost cooperation. Furthermore, 21 agreements are expected to be signed in sectors such as services, tourism, education, IT, defence, and infrastructure.
In a gesture of friendship, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan gifted a model of Turkey's domestically produced electric car, the Togg T10X, to Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari during a two-day trip to Islamabad. The gift has sparked discussion on social media, with some users questioning whether it was a personal gift or an official one.
As Pakistan and Turkey continue to strengthen their ties, the future of their cooperation looks promising, with a focus on mutual benefit and development. The proposed Made in Pakistan single-country exhibition in Turkiye and the commitment to boost Pakistani exports, particularly Basmati rice, are just a few examples of the many initiatives underway to enhance trade and investment between the two countries.
