The recent visit of the Turkish President to Pakistan on February 12-13, 2025, is yet another milestone in the ever-strengthening ties between the two brotherly nations. Pakistan and Turkey share a unique relationship that predates the creation of Pakistan itself. The deep-rooted affinity between the two nations can be traced back to the early 20th century when the Muslims of the subcontinent, particularly from the regions that now constitute Pakistan, supported the Khilafat Movement. Women even donated their gold and jewelry to the cause, signifying the unparalleled devotion and solidarity between the two Muslim communities.
Having traveled to Turkey several times, I have personally experienced the profound friendship and love that the Turkish people harbor for Pakistan. It is a sentiment that every Pakistani should witness firsthand, for it is a bond that is difficult to describe in words but easy to feel in the warm hospitality of the Turkish people.
Shared Concerns and Common Goals
Pakistan and Turkey have always stood by each other on crucial global and regional issues. Both nations advocate for the just resolution of longstanding conflicts such as Kashmir and Cyprus, firmly supporting each other’s stance at international forums. They also share identical views on pressing global concerns, including the Palestinian struggle, the genocide in Gaza, and the rising wave of Islamophobia in the West. This alignment of strategic interests has cemented their partnership in diplomacy and international advocacy.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The visit of the Turkish President to Pakistan carried immense significance and resulted in tangible progress in multiple domains. During his two-day stay, he met with Pakistan’s President, Prime Minister, Chief of Army Staff, and other senior officials and politicians. The two sides held the Joint Strategic Council meeting, a pivotal forum aimed at deepening cooperation and exploring mechanisms to expand bilateral relations.
A key outcome of this high-profile visit was the signing of 24 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), covering a wide range of sectors, including defense, trade, investment, technology, and cultural exchanges. One of the most significant agreements was the commitment to enhancing bilateral trade to $5 billion, a major leap forward from the current trade volume. To achieve this goal, a series of measures were proposed, including preferential trade agreements, business-to-business engagements, and easing trade barriers.
Key Agreements and Economic Prospects
- Defense Collaboration: Pakistan and Turkey have a long history of defense cooperation, including joint military training programs, technology transfers, and defense production collaborations. The new agreements aim to enhance this partnership further, ensuring mutual growth in the defense sector.
- Trade and Investment: With the commitment to reaching $5 billion in bilateral trade, both countries agreed on facilitating trade-friendly policies, investment in infrastructure, and incentives for businesses.
- Technology and Innovation: Recognizing the importance of digital transformation, Pakistan and Turkey agreed to collaborate in the fields of artificial intelligence, cyber security, and smart city projects.
- People-to-People Contact: To enhance cultural and educational exchanges, both nations agreed to simplify visa policies, promote tourism, and strengthen university collaborations.
The Global and Regional Significance
The timing of this visit holds far-reaching implications not only for Pakistan-Turkey relations but also for the broader Muslim world. Key global issues, including the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, the situation in Syria, and the growing threat of Islamophobia, were extensively discussed. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause and working towards an end to the atrocities in Gaza.
Unlocking the Full Potential of Pakistan-Turkey Relations
While Pakistan and Turkey have made significant strides in strengthening their relations, there is still immense potential to be unlocked. Going forward, the two countries should focus on:
- Diversifying Economic Cooperation: Beyond traditional sectors, Pakistan and Turkey can explore opportunities in renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and the digital economy.
- Enhancing Strategic Coordination: Given their shared security concerns, both nations should work closely in intelligence-sharing, counterterrorism efforts, and military cooperation.
- Promoting Joint Ventures: Encouraging joint ventures between businesses from both countries will pave the way for increased economic collaboration and job creation.
- Deepening Cultural and Educational Ties: More scholarships and exchange programs should be introduced to strengthen people-to-people connections.
Conclusion
The visit of the Turkish President to Pakistan in February 2025 has once again reaffirmed the eternal brotherhood between the two nations. With strengthened diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties, the future of Pakistan-Turkey relations looks brighter than ever. This partnership is not just about mutual benefits; it is about a shared history, unwavering solidarity, and a commitment to a common future. As both nations continue to navigate the challenges of the modern world, their unity remains a beacon of hope for the entire Muslim Ummah and beyond.
Author: Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan, Founding Chair GSRRA, Sinologist, Diplomat, Editor, Analyst, Advisor, Consultant, Researcher at Global South Economic and Trade Cooperation Research Center, and Non-Resident Fellow of CCG. (E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com).