To Discuss Key Bilateral and Regional Matters with Leaders of Four Countries
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has departed for Turkey, marking the first stop on his four-country tour. He is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi.
Between May 25 and 30, the Prime Minister will visit Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan.
During his visits, PM Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to engage in comprehensive talks with the leaders of these nations focusing on bilateral ties, regional stability, and global issues of shared interest. He will also convey Pakistan’s appreciation for the support these friendly countries provided during the recent crisis with India.
On May 29 and 30, the Prime Minister will attend the International Conference on Glaciers in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
Turkey and Azerbaijan Show Support for Pakistan
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently spoke with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif over the phone to express solidarity after India’s missile strikes on Pakistani territory.
In the call, Erdoğan commended Pakistan’s calm and restrained response amid rising tensions and supported Islamabad’s demand for an investigation into the April 22 attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which resulted in 26 casualties. Pakistan has denied involvement in the incident.
The Turkish presidency stated that Erdoğan regarded Pakistan’s stance as appropriate and assured continued diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. Turkey also condemned India’s military action, warning it could spark a broader conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Similarly, the Azerbaijani government voiced strong backing for Pakistan. In an official letter to PM Shehbaz Sharif, Azerbaijan condemned India’s recent military operations and expressed concern about the increasing tensions.
Azerbaijani Ambassador to Pakistan, Khazar Farhadov, delivered the message, affirming his government’s solidarity with Pakistan during the crisis. Azerbaijan extended condolences to the victims’ families and wished a speedy recovery for those injured.
The Azerbaijani government emphasized the need to resolve the conflict through diplomatic means and reiterated its commitment to continued cooperation and support for Pakistan.
