Islamabad, June 12, 2025: His Excellency Dr. Irfan Neziroglu, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye to Pakistan, paid a courtesy call on Senator Irfan ul Haque Siddiqui, Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, in Islamabad on Thursday.
During the meeting, both sides held a comprehensive exchange of views on the current state of Pakistan–Turkiye relations, with a particular emphasis on inter-parliamentary cooperation, diplomatic engagement, and evolving regional and global developments. The discussion reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further strengthening collaboration across diverse sectors of shared interest.
Senator Siddiqui underscored Pakistan’s deep appreciation for its historic and fraternal relationship with Turkiye, rooted in common history, cultural affinity, and mutual trust. He highlighted the enduring bonds between the leadership and peoples of both nations.
Ambassador Neziroglu expressed his gratitude for the warm sentiments conveyed by the Senator and emphasized the historical depth of Pakistan–Turkiye ties, which span over a century. He stressed the need to elevate bilateral cooperation to new heights.
Commenting on recent reports of Indian authorities targeting Turkish companies and attempting to disrupt their operations, Senator Siddiqui termed the actions “deeply regrettable,” characterizing them as efforts to weaponize trade for political objectives.
The two dignitaries also voiced serious concern over the continued Israeli aggression in Gaza, condemning the genocide of innocent civilians, including women and children. They called on the United Nations and the international community to take immediate and concrete steps to halt the ongoing violence. Both reaffirmed their commitment to raising their voices on global platforms to advocate for peace, justice, and the protection of human rights.
Senator Siddiqui noted that shared religious, moral, and cultural values between Pakistan and Turkiye provide a strong foundation for enhanced cooperation in key areas such as defence, security, education, trade, and cultural exchange — including the preservation and promotion of traditional arts like calligraphy.
The meeting also addressed regional developments, including recent tensions between Pakistan and India. Senator Siddiqui thanked the Turkish government for its consistent support and solidarity with Pakistan during difficult times. He reiterated that lasting peace in South Asia cannot be achieved without resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Ambassador Neziroglu reaffirmed Turkiye’s principled support for Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir issue.
Concluding the meeting, both sides expressed their determination to further deepen bilateral ties and build upon the strong foundation of friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and the Republic of Turkiye.
