Irfan Siddiqui, Ambassador Neziroglu discuss inter-parliamentary cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs Irfanul Haque Siddiqui and Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Irfan Neziroglu held a comprehensive meeting on Thursday, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkiye.

Key areas of discussion included inter-parliamentary cooperation, diplomatic engagement, and evolving regional and global dynamics.

During the meeting, held as part of a courtesy call by Ambassador Neziroglu, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding collaboration across various sectors of mutual interest. They emphasised the need to further build on the historic and cordial ties between the two brotherly nations.

Senator Siddiqui underscored Pakistan’s deep appreciation for its longstanding relationship with Turkiye, rooted in shared history, cultural ties, and mutual trust. He noted the enduring bond between the leadership and peoples of both countries.

Ambassador Neziroglu reciprocated the sentiments, expressing gratitude for Pakistan’s warm hospitality and highlighting the century-long depth of the Pakistan-Turkiye relationship. He stressed the importance of elevating bilateral cooperation to unprecedented levels in the coming years.

Senator Siddiqui voiced concern over reports of Indian authorities targeting Turkish companies and attempting to obstruct their operations, calling it a regrettable move aimed at politicising trade.

The two dignitaries also expressed grave concern over the ongoing genocide committed by Israeli forces against the people of Gaza. They condemned the killing of thousands of civilians, including women and children, and urged the international community, especially the United Nations, to take immediate, concrete steps to halt the bloodshed. Both sides reiterated their shared resolve to advocate for peace, justice, and human rights on all international platforms.

Senator Siddiqui stated that the shared religious, cultural, and moral values between Pakistan and Turkiye provide a strong foundation for enhanced cooperation in areas such as defence, security, education, trade, cultural exchange, and the promotion of traditional arts, including Islamic calligraphy.

The meeting also touched on recent regional developments, particularly the escalation of tensions between Pakistan and India. Senator Siddiqui thanked the Turkish government for its steadfast support during times of adversity and reaffirmed Pakistan’s position that sustainable peace in South Asia is unattainable without resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

Ambassador Neziroglu assured that Turkiye would continue to support Pakistan’s principled and just stance on the Kashmir issue.