WHILST inaugurating Pakistan Navy warship Tariq on Wednesday at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works along with Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said it is high time for Pakistan and Turkiye to enhance their bilateral strategic cooperation for the prosperity of the two nations.
The inauguration of Pakistan Navy warship is emblematic of the growing ties between the two countries. The MILGEM project, a collaborative initiative to construct four Corvettes, symbolizes the two countries’ commitment to shared defence innovation and self-reliance. In our view, this project is more than just naval advancement. It actually signifies the deepening trust and cooperation between Pakistan and Turkiye. Both nations recognize that modern challenges demand collaborative solutions and defence cooperation is a pivotal foundation for broader bilateral growth. The call to enhance strategic cooperation by Prime Minister Sharif also draws attention to the historical ties and shared cultural affinities between Pakistan and Turkiye. The resonance between these two nations goes beyond diplomatic exchanges; it rests upon a foundation of faith, heritage and common values. The historical support extended during the Khilafat Movement echoes through time, showcasing a profound solidarity that continues to shape their contemporary partnership. Over the years, we have seen the two countries supporting and standing by each other in difficult times and there is undoubtedly immense scope of bolstering this relationship into diverse fields. While the defence sector has been a focal point, the cooperation’s horizons extend well beyond. The path ahead involves not only nurturing defence collaboration but also tapping into the multifaceted potential that their partnership holds. By capitalizing on historical ties, we expect that new avenues of economic cooperation will also be explored by enhancing the level of engagement at different levels. We have no doubt in saying both the brotherly countries can create a lasting legacy of shared prosperity that transcends borders and enriches the lives of their citizens. It is indeed a high time for the two nations to synergize their strengths and stride forward together towards a brighter future.
