Pakistan and Turkey on Friday shared resolve to enhance existing defence cooperation. This understanding was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Defence, Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Turkey, H.E. Fikri ISIK, who was on his first official visit since assuming the charge of his office.
Federal Minister for Defence, Khawaja Muhammad Asif welcomed the Turkish delegation. He conveyed appreciation on democratic initiatives taken by Mr. Recep Tayyip ERDOGAN, the President of Republic of Turkey. He also conveyed condolences and sympathies on suicidal attacks in Istanbul and Ankara.
Exemplary and historical relations between Pakistan and Turkey were also discussed. Both sides reiterated strong desire to deepen, broaden and strengthen their partnership in defence sector. Both countries cooperate closely at the regional and multinational forums through the platforms of UN, OIC, ECO and D-8.
Turkish role as important part of trilateral process on Afghanistan was also discussed. Pakistan reiterated its desire for peaceful and stable Afghanistan through Afghan owned and Afghan led peace process.
Both sides expressed satisfaction over successful holding of 11th Round of High Level Military Dialogue Group meeting in Ankara in Oct 2015. Its next session is scheduled in Pakistan in October 2016. The construction of PN Tanker Fleet at Karachi Shipyard & Engg Works and Turkish Navy’s participation in different Naval Exercises were also discussed. Turkish side also informed that it would participate in IDEAS-2016 this year.
Fikri ISIK has recently been appointed as Minister of National Defence of Turkey. Previously he also served as Speaker of the Grand National Assembly in 2015. Prior to entering politics, he worked as a law consultant and mechanical engineer.
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