Islamabad, Pakistan – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to visit Pakistan later this week as part of his three-nation Asia tour, aimed at strengthening ties with Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan, according to Turkish news outlet Daily Sabah.
Erdogan’s four-day tour kicks off in Malaysia today, followed by a visit to Indonesia, before concluding in Pakistan. His meetings with leaders across these nations will focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation and addressing key global issues, including the Palestine-Israel conflict, the Syria crisis, and the Russia-Ukraine war.
The visit marks an important chapter in Pakistan-Turkiye relations, which have seen significant growth, particularly in the defense sector. The two countries have collaborated on multiple defense deals, including the acquisition of naval vessels and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). Notably, Pakistan was the first country to purchase Turkiye’s nationally-made naval vessels under the MILGEM (National Ship) project.
Erdogan’s last visit to Pakistan was in February 2020, where he met with then-President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan to strengthen the bilateral strategic partnership and economic ties.
Zardari Meets Erdogan in Istanbul
Ahead of Erdogan’s visit, President Asif Ali Zardari met with him during a brief stopover at Istanbul Airport en route to Portugal. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan received Zardari at the airport, where the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest.
Zardari is currently visiting Portugal to express condolences on the passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan and to meet with Prince Rahim Al-Husseini, who was recently named the 50th hereditary Imam following his father’s death.
Erdogan’s upcoming visit is expected to further strengthen Pakistan-Turkiye ties, with both countries eager to expand cooperation across economic, defense, and strategic sectors.
