President Zardari Seeks to Deepen Pakistan-Turkey Ties, Proposes Railway Link and Increased Exchanges

Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari has advocated for an expansion of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkey, emphasizing opportunities in trade, investment, education, and cultural exchanges. His remarks were made during a meeting with Dr. Mehmet Pacaci, the Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan, aiming to foster closer cooperation between the two nations.

According to Press Information Department, during the discussion at Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Zardari encouraged Turkish companies to take advantage of Pakistan’s investment-friendly climate, particularly through the Pakistan Stock Exchange. He highlighted the longstanding historical and cultural bonds shared by the two countries, asserting that these relationships have been characterized by mutual support during challenging times.

President Zardari expressed a desire to leverage Turkey’s development expertise, particularly in infrastructure projects, to aid Pakistan’s own development initiatives. He proposed a joint feasibility study for establishing a railway link to enhance regional connectivity between the two countries.

Additionally, President Zardari stressed the importance of increasing educational and cultural exchanges to strengthen people-to-people contacts. He noted the upcoming visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for the 7th High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council session in Pakistan as an important milestone in furthering bilateral relations.

The President also acknowledged President Erdogan’s supportive messages upon his election and at the start of Ramzan-ul-Mubarak, reciprocating with warm wishes for the continued success of Turkey under Erdogan’s leadership.