In honor of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Pakistan, the newly constructed F-8/F-9 interchange in Islamabad has been named after him. The interchange, built at the junction of Jinnah Avenue and Agha Shahi Avenue, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at a ceremony held at the PM House.
During the visit, Pakistan and Türkiye signed 24 agreements to enhance bilateral cooperation in trade, defense, energy, and other sectors. The agreements mark a significant step forward in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while welcoming President Erdogan, highlighted the deep-rooted historical and diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Türkiye. He expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s continuous support, especially during humanitarian crises such as the devastating floods in Pakistan. Both leaders also condemned the violence in Gaza and Kashmir and called for a collective effort to address global conflicts. PM Sharif further raised concerns over terrorist activities originating from Afghan soil that have impacted Pakistan.
Calling Pakistan his second home, President Erdogan expressed his admiration for Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal, acknowledging their influence on Islamic thought and independence movements. He praised Pakistan’s sacrifices in the War Against Terror and honored the lives lost in the fight against terrorism.
Key Agreements Signed Between Pakistan and Türkiye
The visit saw the signing of 24 agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), covering various sectors:
- Trade & Economy: Agreements to boost trade, enhance industrial cooperation, and digitize trade certifications.
- Defense & Security: MoUs on military training, electronic warfare, and collaboration between Türkiye’s Defense Industries Secretariat and Pakistan’s Ministry of Defense Production.
- Energy & Resources: Agreements on energy transition, mining sector cooperation, and hydrocarbon collaboration.
- Technology & Health: MoUs on pharmaceutical cooperation, scientific research, and digital authentication systems.
- Culture & Education: Agreements on religious education, media cooperation, and collaboration between research institutions.
- Halal Industry: MoU between Türkiye’s Halal Accreditation Authority and the Pakistan Halal Authority.
President Erdogan also discussed economic cooperation and trade expansion with President Asif Ali Zardari, reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. He emphasized the need for a unified effort to support Palestine, urging global recognition of an independent Palestinian state.
The renaming of the F-8/F-9 interchange serves as a symbolic gesture of Pakistan’s friendship with Türkiye, reflecting the growing alliance between the two nations.
