Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met on Thursday in Antalya for a bilateral meeting during the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP31 Leaders Summit. According to a Prime Minister’s Office news release, the two leaders reaffirmed the historic and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Türkiye and expressed satisfaction with the positive trajectory of their bilateral relations.
The leaders engaged in wide-ranging discussions regarding ways to enhance cooperation, specifically focusing on connectivity, energy cooperation, defense collaboration, and investment and trade. Both leaders emphasized the need to explore new opportunities to deepen economic engagement and urged the expedited implementation of ongoing initiatives.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz discussed the evolving regional situation and global developments, highlighting the efforts of regional countries—specifically members of the Makkah Accord—to promote dialogue and de-escalation. President Erdogan expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s mediation efforts and constructive role, which he stated led to the signing of the Islamabad MoU.
The Prime Minister thanked President Erdogan for his close coordination and steadfast support during Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts. Both leaders stressed that all parties must adhere to their commitments under the Islamabad MoU to ensure lasting peace in the wider region.
The two leaders reaffirmed their support for each other on issues of core national interest, citing a tradition of mutual trust and solidarity. They resolved to strengthen the strategic partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye based on a shared vision for prosperity and peace.
