Pakistan Reaffirms Strong Support for Türkiye on Key Regional Issues

Islamabad, Pakistan – In a significant gesture of solidarity, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed the country’s unwavering commitment to supporting its long-standing ally, Türkiye, on several critical regional issues. Speaking at a meeting with top officials from Ankara, Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Türkiye’s principled stance on the Kashmir dispute.

During the high-level interactions, Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s unshakeable resolve to stand firmly with Türkiye on the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) issue. This stance reflects Islamabad’s consistent position over several decades, where it has maintained strong ties with the TRNC and acknowledged its independence. Türkiye’s support for the TRNC has been a cornerstone of their strategic partnership, and Islamabad’s backing has been instrumental in bolstering Ankara’s efforts to protect the rights of the Cypriot Turkish community.

Meanwhile, Sharif also expressed Pakistan’s deep gratitude towards Türkiye for its unwavering support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Prime Minister highlighted the enduring importance of the Kashmir dispute, which remains a contentious issue between India and Pakistan. In a clear nod to Ankara’s commitment to self-determination, Sharif praised Türkiye’s principled stance on this matter, emphasizing the need for a just and peaceful resolution that respects the will of the Kashmiri people.

Sharif’s message is particularly significant given the current regional dynamics and ongoing efforts to promote lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. Pakistan and Türkiye, both members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), have long been at the forefront of efforts to promote a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and address humanitarian crises in war-torn countries.

Through their close cooperation, Pakistan and Türkiye aim to strengthen regional counter-terrorism efforts, enhance economic ties, and expand bilateral trade and investment opportunities. As Sharif’s statement underscores, Islamabad and Ankara’s shared vision for regional cooperation hinges on mutual understanding, respect, and a commitment to shared values.

With their strong bond and mutual trust, Pakistan and Türkiye are expected to continue playing a vital role in shaping regional politics, fostering dialogue, and promoting long-term peace in the strategic Middle East. As Pakistan reaffirms its support for key Turkish positions, the bilateral relationship is poised to become even more robust, yielding tangible benefits for both nations and the region as a whole.