pakistan – turkey relations - Islamabad Policy Research Institute

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 1
PAKISTAN – TURKEY RELATIONS
EDITOR
DR NOOR UL HAQ
ASSISTANT EDITOR
MUHAMMAD NAWAZ KHAN

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CONTENTS
Preface v
1. Quaid-i-Azam M.A. Jinnah on Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and
Modern Turkey 1
2. The Emergence of Pakistan and the Turkish Public Opinion
in 1947 7
3. Pakistan-Turkish Agreement for Adhering to the Principles of
UN Charter (April 1954) 11
4. Agreement between Turkey and Pakistan for Protection of
Environment (June 2003) 13
5. Agreement between Turkey and Pakistan on Fighting Against
International Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic
Substances (June 2003) 17
6. Bilateral Road Transport Agreement between Pakistan and Turkey
(June 2003) 20
7. Banquet Speeches by the Prime Ministers of Pakistan and Turkey 29
(June 2003)
8. President’s Speech at the Luncheon in Honour of Prime Minister
of Turkey, (June 2003) 34
9. Cooperation with Turkey 36
10. Cooperation Agreement between Pakistan and Turkey on Fight
against International Terrorism and Organized Crime,
(January 2004) 38
11. President’s Address to the Turkish Grand National Assembly
(January 2004) 42
12. President’s Address to the Turkish Business Community
(January 2004) 48
13. Turkish President’s Address at the Islamic Conference
(June 2004) 51

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 3
14. Prime Minister’s Visit to Turkey (May-June 2005) 52
15. Relations with Turkey 63
16. President of Turkish Cyprus Calls on Prime Minister
(September 2006) 65
17. Prime Minister’s Visit to Turkey (September 2006) 66
18. President’s Visit to Turkey (April, 2007) 66
19. Pakistan - Turkey Joint Statement (October, 2008) 69
20. Turkish Parliamentarian Calls for Active Engagement
in Pakistan (May 2009) 71
21. Trial Phase of Pak-Turkey Train Service (August 2009) 74
22. Turkey’s MİLGEM to Build Military Ships for Pakistan 75
23. Islamabad-Istanbul Links: $20 Bn Rail Upgrade Project
(January 2010) 76
24. Peace Enjoyed by Pakistan is Peace of Turkey and Unease of
Pakistan is Unease of Turkey: Turkish PM 78
25. Grand Welcome Awaits Turkish President in Islamabad 80
26. Prime Minister’s Speech at Pakistan-Turkey CEO Forum
(March 2010) 83
27. Pakistan, Turkey Sign Three MoUs On Economic Cooperation
(March 2010) 86
28. President Gul Leaves Indelible Imprints 87
29. Joint Press Statement on Pakistan-Turkey Special Relationship 88
30. Turkish President’s Visit (April 2010) 91
31. Turkey and Pakistan to Accelerate the Development of Economic
Relations 93
32. Pak-Turk Joint Defence Production 94
33. Iran, Pakistan, Turkey to Launch Freight Train 95

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34. Turkey Mobilized to Extend Help to Millions of Flood Victims in
Pakistan (April 2010) 96
35. President Gul Calls on Turkey to Help Flood-Hit Pakistan 97
36. Turkey to Expand Economic Relations with Pakistan:
Abdullah Gul (August 2010) 98
37. Trade Between Pakistan and Turkey 100
PRI Publications 103

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 5
P REFACE
The Muslim population of South Asian subcontinent had centuries old
cordial ties with the brotherly people of Turkey. Accordingly, Pakistan
and Turkey have always remained close friends. They were members of
Central Treaty Organization (CENTO) 1 , which was effective from 1955
till 1979 and of Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) 2 which
functioned from 1964 till 1979. The latter organization was replaced by
Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) 3 in 1985 for promoting
economic, technical and cultural cooperation. Both countries are aligned
in the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) 4 , founded in 1967 to
increase cooperation in social, economic, cultural, scientific and political
areas; uphold international peace and security; and advance education.
Both are members of the Developing Eight (D-8) 5 , i.e., countries with
large Muslim populations, for cooperating in economic and humanitarian
development.
Pakistan and Turkey have generally concurred and supported each
other on most issues facing them, be they the just settlement of Kashmir,
Cyprus and Palestine problems or on such matters as terrorism,
democracy, nuclear proliferation, trade and commerce. Since, however,
commercial relations between them have not been up to the desired level,
recently there has been seen an upsurge in efforts to increase trade and
investment. They have agreed to start a cargo train service between the
two countries.
In order to join hands against terrorism and extremism, they have
agreed to deepen security cooperation in the area of military training,
education, defence production and procurement. There is an agreement
1
Original name was “Middle East Treaty Organization (METO)” and also
known as Baghdad Pact. It was formed in 1955 by Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
and U.K.
2
A multi-governmental organization established in 1964 by Turkey, Iran and
Pakistan.
3
Originally it was established by Turkey, Iran and Pakistan in 1985. In 1992,
Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan
and Uzbekistan were added.
4
It is a group of 57 Muslim majority states established in 1985.
5
It includes Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan and
Turkey.

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to enhance exchanges among parliamentarians, academia, journalists,
think tanks and opinion-makers of the two countries.
The current IPRI Factfile has attempted to include some documents,
agreements, and statements, relating to Pakistan-Turkey relations from
the beginning till the present day.
August 31, 2010. Noor ul Haq

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 1
Q UAID-I-AZAM JINNAH ON MUSTAFA KEMAL ATATURK AND
MODERN TURKEY
Pakistan and Turkey are old nations having historical and cultural links.
People of both the nations are bound by common ideological links. Even
before 1947 when Pakistan was not founded its people known as Muslims
of South Asia had special links. Early rulers of Muslim India were, as a
matter of fact, Turkish rulers. During the period when the British
colonized the Indo-Pak subcontinent the Ottoman Turkish Empire was
considered by the Indian Muslims as a source of pride and of honour.
That is why when there was danger to the existence of Ottoman
Caliphate in the early 20th century and during the First World War there
was great sympathy and concern expressed by the Muslim Indian leaders.
And when Turkey was defeated by the European powers there was a
wave of resentment for the preservation of Turkish. In this background
when Turkish forces led by Mustafa Kemal rose in self-defence Muslim
India always welcomed this new development. So was the case with
Quaid Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah who always respected Kemal
Ataturk. When Turkey was made a Republic the Quaid welcomed it.
When Pakistan was established in 1947 the Quaid was all the more happy
to establish good relationship with Turkey. All these aspects are visible
through various expressions of the Quaid which we shall see in this
paper.
Born in 1881 Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was great leader of the
Muslim world. When the old Ottoman Empire was shaken and defeated
during the first World War (1914-18) and the defeated Turkish lands were
occupied by the Allied forces, it was Mustafa Kemal’s military skill and
farsightedness which liberated the Turkish lands from foreign soldiers
during: 1919-22. When in 1921 Mustafa Kemal expelled the Greek forces
from Turkish lands he was warmly greeted by the Muslim League leaders.
A resolution in this connection was passed in December 1921. By 1922 he
completely liberated the Turkish areas from European Control and
declared Turkey a republic. He remained President of Modern Turkey
from 1922 to until his death on 10 November 1938. He reformed Turkey,
introduced a modern educational system and tried to make Turkey as a
modern European nation by encouraging European pattern of life.
During his long political career spread over half a century Quaid-i-
Azam Jinnah keenly watched the developments in the Muslim World
particularly in both the Ottoman Empire and modern Turkey. He had

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great regard for Kemal Ataturk. Immediately after his death, Quaid-i-
Azam, as President of AIML, issued a directive on 11 November 1938 to
all the branches of the Muslim League in the whole of Indo-Pak
subcontinent to observe Friday, 18 November as "Kemal Day". In this
connection following directive was issued:
I request provincial, District and Primary Muslim Leagues all
over India to observe Friday the 16th of November as Kemal
Day and hold public meetings to express deepest feeling of
sorrow and sympathy of Musalmans of India in the irreparable
loss that the Turkish Nation has suffered in the passing away of
one of the greatest sons of Islam and a world figure and the
saviour and maker of Modern Turkey Kemal Ataturk.
During a press interview Quaid-i-Azam Jinnah thus praised the services of
Mustafa Kemal:
He was the greatest Muslaman in the modern Islamic World
and I am sure that the entire Musalman world will deeply
mourn his passing away.
It is impossible to express adequately in a press interview
one's appreciation of his remarkable and varied services, as
the builder and the maker of Modern Turkey and an example
to the rest of the world, especially to the Musalman States in
the Far East. The remarkable way in which he rescued and
built up his people against all odds, has no parallel in the
history of the world.
He must have derived the greatest sense of satisfaction that he
fully accomplished his mission during his life-time and left his
people and his country consolidated, united and a powerful
nation. In him, not only the Musalmans but the whole world
have lost one of the greatest men that ever lived.
During the 27 th session of the All India Muslim League held at
Patna in December 1938 the Quaid, in presidential speech, paid his
tributes to the great Turkish leader:
Another great figure; a world figure, who passed away is
Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. His death has come as the great
blow to the Muslim world. He was the foremost figure in the
Muslim East. In Persia and Afghanistan in Egypt and, of
course, in Turkey, he proved, to the consternation of the rest
of the world that Muslim nations were coming into their
own. In Kemal Ataturk the Islamic world has lost a great
hero. With t’ example of this great Mussalman in front of

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 3
them L an inspiration, will the Muslims of India still remain
quagmire?
He also got a resolution passed by the League session, which ran as
follows:
This Annual Session of the All India Muslim League
expresses its deepest feelings of sorrow and grief al the sad
demise of Ataturk Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Pasha, whom it
acknowledges as a truly great personality in the Islamic
world, a great general and a great statesman. He rebuilt and
revived the Turkish nation after its defeat and disintegration,
and in spite of opposition from the European Powers,
succeeded in defeating the enemies of Turkey, and within a
short time brought his country to the front rank of nations.
By establishing a concord and alliance of the Eastern nations,
he guided the East to the true goal of political power and
prosperity, his memory will inspire Muslims all over the
world with courage, perseverance and manliness. With this
expression of its heartfelt grief, this Session of the All India
Muslim League wishes to convey its message of sympathy
and condolence to the Turkish nation in its great
bereavement.
While the Muslims of South Asia were struggling hard to
establish Pakistan as a modern Muslim state the Turkish model was very
much there in their mind. At the 30th session of All India Muslim League
held in Delhi in April 1943 Sardar Aurangzeb Khan - a Muslim leader
from North West Frontier Province, thus cited the example of Turkey in
support of the Pakistan Movement:
They [the Muslims] should lose no time, and like the Turkey of
today should organize themselves, to face the danger, in every
village and towns.
Following the emergence of Pakistan that H.E. Yahya Kemal
Beytali presented his credentials on 4 March 1948 to Quaid-i-Azam in
Karachi as the first Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of
Turkey to Pakistan. In his speech the Ambassador said:
The choice made by His Excellency in bestowing upon my
humble Person the honourable task of representing him for the
first time in Pakistan will be a special source of happiness to me
in the fulfillment of my mission.

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Pakistan has a past as old as history itself and is heir to a most
ancient civilisation. The birth of such a country as great power
in the comity of nations is an event of far-reaching importance.
The Turkish nation is convinced that Pakistan will render
invaluable services to humanity in the cause of peace and
civilisation.
Many spiritual and sentimental ties, born and grown in the
course of long history, bind the Turks to the people of
Pakistan. I shall endeavour to the best of my ability to develop
these traditional ties into a productive collaboration.
To ensure the success of my efforts I shall need as a source of
strength your Excellency's kind assistance as well as the
valuable cooperation of the Pakistan Government.
While emphasising once again the fraternal love and friendship
of the Turkish nation for the noble nation of Pakistan I have
great pleasure in assuring your Excellency that my countrymen
follow with the keenest interest the development and progress
attain in the future even higher peaks of success in peace and
security.
To which Quaid i-Azam as Head of State thus replied:
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you today as the first
Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan. But my pleasure is enhanced
as there is a unique significance about today's ceremony to the
people of Pakistan for historical reasons. Your Excellency has
yourself observed that many spiritual and sentimental ties born
and grown in the course of a long history bind the people of
Turkey to the people of Pakistan. Not only this but also by a
turn of the world situation during the past 50 years or more,
Turkey has been in our thoughts constantly and has drawn our
admiration for the velour of your people and the way in which
your statesman and leaders have struggled and fought almost
single handed in the midst of Europe for your freedom and
sovereignty which have been happily maintained.
The exploits of your leaders in many a historic field of battle,
the progress of your Revolution, the rise and career of the great
Ataturk, his revitalisation of your nation by his great
statesmanship, courage and foresight - all these stirring events
are well-known to the people of Pakistan. In fact, right from
the very birth of political consciousness amongst the Muslims
of this great sub-continent, the fortunes of your country were

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 5
observed by us with deep sympathy and interest. I can,
therefore, assure your Excellency that the Muslims of Pakistan
entertain sentiments of affection and esteem for your country,
and now Turkey and Pakistan both are free, sovereign and
independent countries, can strengthen their ties more and more
for the good of both.
We hope that with Your Excellency's assistance and
cooperation we may be able to build up closer political and
cultural ties with your State, and thus contribute our share to
the attainment of peace and prosperity throughout the world.
Finally, I extend a most cordial welcome to Your Excellency as
the first Ambassador of Turkey to Pakistan - a welcome
charged with the deepest affection born of historical and
cultural ties and traditions of the past.
His Excellency Ambassador Yahya Kemal Beyatali had arrived at
the Governor-General's House at 11.00 A.M. on 4 March 1948. He was
accompanied by Monsieur Zubeyiraker, First Secretary of Turkish
Embassy and attended by A. Hilaly, Deputy Secretary of Pakistan's
Ministry of Foreign Affairs. As the Ambassador's car came round the
drive of the Governor-General's House, naval guard of honour drawn up
near the porch came to attention and gave the salute and the band of the
Royal Pakistan Navy struck up the National Anthem of Turkey. Yahya
Kemal Beyatali was conducted to the State Room by the Military
Secretary to the Governor-General, Col. A.S. Shah, Chief of protocol and
lkramullah, Pakistan's Foreign Secretary, presented him to the Quaid-i-
Azam.
Quaid-i-Azam had deep knowledge about the Ottoman Turkey and
modem Turkey. As a student of law he had also studied the Muslim law
as practiced in Turkey and other Muslim countries. When he himself
drafted the Mussalman Waqf Validating Bill in 1911 he claimed in his
speech that he studied Muslim waqf law as practised in Turkey and other
Muslim countries.
Quaid-i-Azam had great respect and regard for the Ottoman
Empire also which fell prey to European intrigues during the First World
War He spoke of the discriminatory attitude of the Europeans against the
Turkish, people. During the Balkan wars this threat was manifest. On 10
November 1912 the Muslims of Bombay arranged a meeting for
expressing their concern for preservation of the Ottoman Empire. In this
meeting which was presided over by Sir Currimbhoy Ebrahim, an

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industrial magnate of Bombay, Jinnah was the one who moved the first
resolution which ran as follows:
That considering the long-continued relations between Great
Britain and Turkey, and the moral and material support which,
the former has from time to time extended to the later, and in
view of the fact that Great Britain is the greatest Mahomedan
power in the world, this meeting appeal to the British
Government and trusts that Great Britain will help to preserve
the integrity of Turkey and by her powerful influence help to
keep up the prestige of the Ottoman Empire with which the
sentiments of the Moslem world, both political and religious,
are so deeply and indissolubly tied up.
In his speech Jinnah said that the "Balkan war had stirred up the
Muslims the most." He appealed to both the Muslims and Hindus, who
were present, to pay handsomely for the succour of the widows and the
wounded. He himself contributed Rs. 500/= for this purpose.
Quaid-i-Azam kept close relationship with the Ottoman
representatives in India, especially in Bombay. When on the evening of 19
March 1914 a farewell was arranged in honour of H.E. Halil Halid Bey,
retiring Counsel-General, Jinnah was invited to speak on the occasion. In
proposing toast to the Guest of the evening the Quaid said that the
Mohammedans of India took the greatest pride in the Ottoman Empire
and they showed their sympathy not by words alone but gave practical
effect as was shown in the recent troubles in Turkey. The Quaid assured
His Excellency that the Muslims of India would not hesitate to make any
sacrifice they could to show their love and respect for the great caliphate.
After the institution of caliphate was abolished by the Grand
Turkish National Assembly and Turkey was declared a Republic on 03
March 1924, the Quaid welcomed the new national development in
Turkey which was led by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Through various
speeches the Quaid extended his support to Ataturk's new reformist
ideas. This was because the Quaid believed in modernizing the Moslem
world by benefiting from the advanced Western nations. He also believed
that not only the Muslim institutions should be reformed but new social,
educational, cultural, scientific and technological steps should be taken to
strengthen each one of the Muslim nations living in varied historical and
geographical setting in different parts of the world.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 7
Thus Ataturk and Quaid-i-Azam had a lot in common in respect
of the uplift of the respective nations.
Dr Riaz Ahmad, ed. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, Modern Turkey and Pakistan:
Some Aspects (Islamabad: National Institute of Historical and Cultural Research
Centre of Excellence, Quaid-i-Azam University, 2005), 1-7.
T HE EMERGENCE OF PAKISTAN AND THE TURKISH
PUBLIC OPINION IN 1947
The year 1947 was a turning point in world history, when the old order
began to collapse with the division of Europe into two ideological
spheres. In August 1947 the Indian Sub-continent was also divided into
two countries, whereby the Muslims of the Subcontinent came to possess
a state of their own called Pakistan: a young state of an old people, the
land of an ancient culture henceforth emblazoned the map of the world.
The Muslims of the Subcontinent derives a great deal of encouragement
in their freedom struggle from the Kemalist Turkey and Turks and the
way they had successfully waged their war of resistance between the years
1919 to 1922. Likewise the support the Indian Muslims extended to the
Turks during their hour of trial also constitutes a remarkable aspect of
Turkish history. On 10 November 1938, on the eve of the death of
Ataturk - the darkest day for the Turks - Quaid-i-Azam M.A. Jinnah in
the course of a speech, expressed his deepest mourning on the loss of that
most brilliant General and Statesman of the East. He asked his audience
that ‘with such a leader and admirable figure amid us shall we still suffer
this dark era?’ The audience replied in unison ‘no more’.
In 1947, Turkey was enjoying the second year of multiparty
system. The economic difficulties coupled with the memories of war
years and martial law of one-party system provoked a large wave of
oppositional criticism. Internal politics turned day by day into a warmer
conflict. In a few months several parties, from radical left to right wing
had been established. One of the most interesting developments in this
regard was the compromising attitude of the government with the
oppositional forces, in matters of radical secularism. But in spite of this,
country turned into a stage of polemics between the liberal opposition
and the Republican Party. If on the one hand internal political situation
created an anxious atmosphere, on the other, the internal ideological
conflict and political crisis, also had its impact on Turkey. The cold war
between East and West, too, focussed on this country for a while, because

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of the demands of the Soviet Union on the Turkish Straits. The general
conditions of the Balkans and Soviet demands forced Turkey to arrange
an alliance in order to resist the threats of the Eastern bloc. In those days,
even the Greek politicians like Chaldaris, gave interviews about
confederation system between Greece and Turkey. Besides the problems,
which troubled the bureaucracy and public circles in Turkey we cannot
put aside the unfavourable conditions of an underdeveloped
communication and information network which existed between Turk
and the Indian Subcontinent, before the Independence. Turkey has today,
permanent correspondents in neighbouring countries and enjoys excellent
press contacts with Pakistan. The political life in Pakistan is follow
better, and political events are reflected sooner. It is nothing short of
revolution, that a Turkish TV man today can conduct interviews with
ordinary people on the streets of Pakistani towns. But in those days, the
Turkish newspapers, had no correspondents at all in India. The news on
India had to be picked up either from West European mass media, or
rarely from some eyewitness reporters who passed through Turkey.
Notwithstanding all these problems, it was an amazing fact, that
the Turkish newspapers in those days provided interesting information
and made encouraging commentaries on the Muslim freedom struggle in
the Indian Subcontinent. This deep interest and support had its roots in
the common historical background of the two peoples.
After the Second World War there was an obvious revival in the
Islamic world. On 12 April 1947, Sheikh Senusi expressed his wish for a
union with Turkey; obviously he wanted to restore the old union which
had been ruined after the Italian annexation of Tripolis (Trabulusgharb)
1912. Later, he asked for experts and even for administrators from
Turkey. The sympathy of Turkish public opinion with the Muslims of
India was not entirely based on the commonality of faith - Islam; even the
secular elements in public life, literature and politics also supported them.
Almost every day between July-December 1947, news arriving from
Muslim provinces of India, such as trains carrying Muslim refugees under
miserable conditions, or the attacks of Hindus and Sikhs upon Muslim
migrant groups. Could be read in newspapers. For example, on 27 August
1947. In the station of Tokhora the Sikhs attacked a Muslim train and
massacred hundreds of Muslim migrants. The same day a message of
Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan was published in Turkish newspapers,
wherein he had expressed the gratitude of Pakistan to the Turkish leaders,
for their support of the Turkish Government and people to the cause of

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 9
Indian Muslims. In those days Turkish newspapers and leading writers
took active part in the controversy surrounding the Hindu-Muslim
relations and the Muslim demand for Pakistan. Reacting to the
propaganda of Indian leaders, that Pakistan could only be created
artificially and would have no future, a leading scholar Omer Riza
Dogrul wrote: ‘Many Indians cannot bear and stand to hear the concept
of Pakistan and claim. That putting Muslim parts of India under this
name is an insult. But the reality is on the contrary, as the Muslim leader
Jinnah mentions, Pakistan is a combination of Punjab, Kashmir, Sindhh
and Balochistan. Pakistan is stressed for a while in Turkey as a country of
Pak people - clean and pure ....’ Arguing against the Indian thesis. He
further added:
The Islamic background of Pakistan is closely connected to
the history of Turks. Islam found its stronghold there as
early as in the first century of Hijra and Turkish conquerors
and commanders entered and settled there. They established
there - like Babur, the grandson of Tamurlane, an empire
and later Akbar Shah, who expanded its boundaries and
covered almost all India. The fall of this empire happened
only 90 years ago, not even a century. It is a happy event,
that Muslims in India now proclaimed, under their able
leaders, an independent state. We are glad that India also
took its independence. We wish that they live in peaceful
coexistence and build their future together in a brotherly
fashion and work for the welfare of each other.
A radical secularist leader and leading writer of Turkish press
Necmettin Sadak also clearly expressed his opinion about the formation
of the Muslim State of Pakistan in September 4, 1947, issue of Aksam, and
using rather the calm style of a sociologist wrote: ‘There is not a unified
and single India. For India we better use the French term in plural form
‘Ies Indes’. India still suffers from many ethnic problems, whereas Muslim
Pakistan - unlike India - owes its existence to a religious and cultural
unity. Unlike India, Pakistan will not suffer from certain problems of
strange caste system. Islam in these regions had solved, in the course of
history the institution and problems of caste system. So the Muslim
society of Pakistan has more chances than India to realize the
modernization and unification of the country and its people ... Because of
that structure, the emergence of Muslim Pakistan would help the
existence of peace in Indian Subcontinent ...’

10 IPRI Factfile
Certainly the most erudite writer of the time, especially on this
subject, was the brilliant novelist and politician, Mrs. Halide Edib Adivar,
in those days Professor of English Literature at the University of
Istanbul. In one of her articles she justified the necessary and undeniable
formation of the state of Pakistan as follows: ‘Formerly I had my doubts
about the formation of Pakistan. But later I wrote a book on this
question - Inside India. Pakistan has another cultural and historical
background. And they had to be liberated from Hindu dominance in
industry and commerce, besides. The social structure of this country is
based on the principles of Islam that means social equality, which is far
away from caste system’. In 1947 she tried to enlighten the Turkish
public in this matter, as she did ten years ago with her erudite style and
arguments in England. There she published a book entitled Inside India,
in 1937, which still maintains its value as a first-hand source of
inforn1ation on this subject. She explained the role of Islam in the
formation of Muslim India as follows ‘With regard to the clash between
the Hindu and Muslim systems, the principal difference between them
was that while Islamic system gave latitude for social evolution,
Hinduism gave latitude to the mind only and insisted on a fixed social
pattern’. She evaluated the social patterns of Pakistan positively for the
purpose of modernization.
On 12 December 1947, Malik Firoze Khan Noon, a social envoy of
Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Governor General of Pakistan,
came to Turkey and in the course of a press conference reciprocated the
Turkish sentiments of friendship towards Pakistan in the following
words: ‘Pakistan admires the glorious past of Turkey, and its
administrative achievements and organizational abilities in the past and
present times. Pakistan is now two months old, [and] in the near future
the two brotherly countries are going to establish close cultural,
commercial and political relations... A new happy era will emerge for
these two countries ...’
Ilber Ortayli, “The Emergence of Pakistan and the Turkish Public
Opinion in 1947,” in Research Papers on Pakistan, vol. I, ed. Nadeem Shafiq Malik
(Islamabad: National Book Foundation, 1998), 121-124.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 11
PAKISTAN-TURKISH AGREEMENT, KARACHI, APRIL 2, 1954
PREAMBLE
Reaffirming their faith in the purposes and principles of the Charter of
the United Nations and their determination always to endeavour to apply
and give effect to these purposes and principles; desirous of promoting
the benefits of greater mutual cooperation deriving from the sincere
friendship happily existing between them; recognising the need for
consultation and cooperation between them in every field for the purpose
of promoting the well-being and security of their peoples; and being
convinced that such cooperation would be in the interest of all peaceloving
nations and in particular of nations in the region of the contracting
parties, and would consequently serve to ensure peace and security which
are both indivisible; the two countries have, therefore, decided to
conclude this Agreement for friendly cooperation and for this purpose,
have appointed as their Plenipotentiaries: For Pakistan: Mohammad
Zafrullah Khan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Commonwealth
Relations. For Turkey: His Excellency Monsieur Selahattin Refet Arbel,
Ambassador of Turkey who, after presentation of their full powers,
found in good and due form, have agreed as follows:
Article 1
The contracting parties undertake to refrain from intervening in any way
in the internal affairs of each other and from participating in any alliance
or activities directed against the other.
Article 2
The contracting parties will consult on international matters of mutual
interest and, taking into account international requirements and
conditions, cooperate between them to the maximum extent.
Article 3
The contracting parties will develop the cooperation, already established
between them in the cultural field under a separate Agreement, in the
economic and technical fields if necessary, by concluding other
agreements.

12 IPRI Factfile
Article 4
The consultation and cooperation between the contracting parties in the
field of the defence shall cover the following points:
(a) exchange of information for the purpose of deriving benefit
jointly from technical experience and progress;
(b) endeavours to meet, as far as possible, the requirements of the
Parties in the production of arms and ammunition;
(c) studies and determination of the manners and extent of
cooperation which might be affected between them in accordance
with Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations, should an
unprovoked attack occur against them from outside.
Article 5
Each contracting party declares that none of the international
engagements now in force between it and any third State is in conflict
with the provisions of this Agreement and that this Agreement shall not
affect, nor can it be interpreted so as to affect, the aforesaid engagements,
and undertakes not to enter into any international engagement in conflict
with this Agreement.
Article 6
Any State, whose participation is considered by the contracting parties
useful for achieving the purposes of the present Agreement, may accede
to the present Agreement under the same conditions, and with the same
obligations as the contracting parties. Any accession shall have legal
effect, after the instrument of accession is duly deposited with the
Government of Turkey from the date of an official notification by the
Government of Turkey to the Government of Pakistan.
Article 7
This Agreement of which the English text is authentic, shall be ratified by
the contracting parties in accordance with their respective constitutional
processes, and shall enter into force on the date of the exchange of the
instruments of ratification in Ankara.
In case no formal notice of denunciation is given by either of the
contracting parties to the other, one year before the termination of a

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 13
period of five years from the date of its entry into force, the present
Agreement shall automatically continue in force for a further period of
five years, and the same procedure will apply for subsequent periods
thereafter.
In Witness whereof, the above-mentioned plenipotentiaries have
signed the present Agreement. Done in two copies at Karachi the second
day of April one thousand nine hundred and fifty-four.
Munir Hussain, Alternatives (Turkish Journal of International Relations),
vol. 7, no. 2&3, Summer & Fall2008,
http://www.alternativesjournal.net/volume7/Number2&3/hussain.pdf
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE G OVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC
OF T URKEY AND THE G OVERNMENT OF THE ISLAMIC
REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN ON COOPERATION FOR THE
PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT; ISLAMABAD,
15 JUNE 2003
The Government of the Republic of Turkey and the Government of the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan (hereinafter referred to individually as "a
Party" and collectively as "the Parties").
Taking into account the Johannesburg Declaration on Sustainable
Development and the Plan of Implementation both adopted at the World
Summit on Sustainable Development held in Johannesburg in September
2002.
Recognizing the significance of the sustainable development
approach for the protection and improvement of the environment as well
as for the health and well-being of the present and future generations.
Bearing in mind the need for close cooperation on scientific,
technical and technological aspects of the protection of environment and
conservation of natural resources.
Recognizing the importance of environmental policies and practices
with a view to arrive at adequate solutions for global environmental
issues.
Article 1
The Parties shall cooperate, in the fields of environmental protection
listed below, on the basis of equality, reciprocity and mutual benefit, with
the participation, as appropriate, of the relevant institutions and

14 IPRI Factfile
organizations and, if possible, the private sector with a view to providing
and effective protection of the environment:
a) Development and implementation of waste treatment and
disposal methods;
b) Conservation of biological diversity; protection of endangered,
endemic and migratory species of flora and fauna; protection of
the habitats of the species listed herein as well as ecologically
sensitive areas such as wetlands and specially protected areas,
and in this context, preparation of natural resource
management plans;
c) Exchange of information and experience on soil protection and
rehabilitation;
d) Exchange of information and experience in the field of
renewable energy sources.
Article 2
The Parties shall cooperate in the following forms in the fields stated in
Article 1 of the Agreement through:
a) Exchange of information and data on research and development
activities, policies, environmental practices and legal provisions;
b) Coordination of research and monitoring activities when
deemed necessary by the Parties;
c) Organization of joint meetings to be attended by the experts
and officials of the Parties;
d) Organization of technical symposia, conferences and seminars;
e) Preparation and implementation of joint training programmes
in order to train qualified experts in the areas of cooperation
and exchange of experts within this framework;
f) Any other form of cooperation deemed necessary by the
Parties.
Article 3
For the implementation of this Agreement, the Parties shall draw up biannual
work programmes consisting elaborately drawn up concrete
activities envisaged within the framework of this Agreement.
The bi-annual work programmes shall become effective on the day
following the receipt of the last written notification by which the Parties

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 15
inform each other that their respective Ministries have approved the biannual
work programmes.
The National Coordinators, as indicated in Article 4 of the
Agreement shall be responsible for the elaboration and updating of the biannual
work programmes.
Article 4
Each Party shall designate a National Coordinator, to be responsible for
the management of the activities to be carried out under this Agreement.
The National Coordinators shall be representatives of the respective
Ministries of Environment.
Each Party shall notify the other name of its National Coordinator.
Each Party may designate a replacement Coordinator at anytime upon
written notice to the other Party.
The National Coordinators shall meet at mutually agreed dates and
venues in order to review the cooperation carried out in accordance with
this Agreement and to elaborate and update the bi-annual work
programmes when necessary.
Article 5
Parties may communicate the results of their cooperation to third parties
upon mutual consent of parties.
Article 6
All disputes concerning interpretation and application of this Agreement
shall be resolved through negotiations between the Parties.
Article 7
Nothing in the Agreement shall be interpreted so as to prejudice the
rights and obligations of the Parties arising from other Agreements under
International Law.
Article 8
Implementation of the activities under this Agreement shall be subject to
the availability of appropriate funds and to the applicable laws and
regulations in each country.

16 IPRI Factfile
Unless otherwise agreed, each Party shall bear the costs of its own
participation in the activities determined in the bi-annual work
programmes.
Article 9
This Agreement may be amended or modified at any time through
mutual consent of the Parties. The amendment or modification shall
enter into force in accordance with the procedure as laid down in Article
10 of this Agreement.
Article 10
This Agreement is subject to ratification. It shall enter into force on the
date following the receipt of the last written notification by which the
Parties inform each other that the national legal requirements for the
entering into force of the Agreement have been completed.
Article 11
This Agreement is valid for a period of five years and shall be
automatically renewed for similar periods. Either Party may terminate
this Agreement at any time, after the expiry of first period of five years,
by giving a notice of three months to the other Party through diplomatic
channels. The termination of this Agreement shall not after the validity
or duration of any arrangement agreed upon in accordance with this
Agreement initiated period to its denunciation.
Done at Islamabad on 15th June 2003 in Turkish, and English
languages each in two copies both texts being equally authentic. In case of
any discrepancy between the texts, the English text shall prevail.
Sd/- Sd/-
H.E Kursad Tumen Major (retd) Tahir Iqbal
State Minister for Foreign Trade Minister of State for Environment
For the Government of the For the Government of the
Republic Islamic of Turkey Republic of Pakistan
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXX, issue 5 (June, 2003): 270-274.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 17
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE G OVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC
OF T URKEY AND THE G OVERNMENT OF THE ISLAMIC
REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN ON FIGHTING AGAINST
INTERNATIONAL ILLICIT T RAFFICKING IN NARCOTIC DRUGS
AND PSYCHOTROPIC SUBSTANCES, ISLAMABAD,
15 JUNE 2003
The Government of the Republic of Turkey and the Government of the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan (Hereinafter referred to as the “Parties”),
Within the framework of already existing friendly relations
between the two countries,
In accordance with the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs
as amended by the Protocol of 1972, the 1971 Convention Against Illicit
Drug Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances and in
particular, Article 9 of this Convention which anticipates cooperation
between the parties,
Concerned about the danger caused by international illicit drug
trafficking and its link with trafficking and smuggling of human beings,
Willing to strengthen and deepen the existing cooperation between
the security authorities of the two countries in fighting against
international illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic
substances,
Acting by the principle of equality and mutual benefit,
Having agreed on the following articles:
Areas of Cooperation
Article I
1. In accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, the Parties shall
cooperate in prevention and investigation of the following crimes;
a) Illicit cultivation, manufacture, trafficking, transportation and
abuse of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances as well as
the chemical substances/precursors used for their production.
b) Narco money laundering.
c) Controlled delivery.

18 IPRI Factfile
2. They shall cooperate in the training field (relating to narcotics only)
in order to improve crime prevention and investigation skills of their staff
or to develop their knowledge and experience.
3. Any other areas of mutual interest agreed by the Parties.
Forms of Cooperation
Article II
The cooperation between the Parties mentioned in Article I shall be
maintained, in accordance with their national legislations, in the
following forms;
1. Exchange of information relating to offences being planned, offences
in progress or offences committed, which concerns the other Party.
2. Location and identification of persons being sought by the Law
Enforcement Agencies.
3. Location, identification and examination of the objects and the
Parties involved in an incident.
4. Performing of controlled delivery.
5. Exchange of information obtained through investigations.
6. Exchange of knowledge and experience, legislative or regulatory
documents and relevant scientific and technical information.
7. Exchange of experts.
8. Organizing Joint Commission Meetings.
Procedure
Article III
The procedure for cooperation, referred to in Article I, shall be as
follows;
1. Requests for cooperation will be submitted to the following
authorities;
In fulfilling the provisions of this Agreement, Department of Anti
Smuggling and Organized Crime of the General Directorate of Security
of the Ministry of the Interior shall function as Liaison office for the
Turkish side and Ministry of Narcotics Control shall function as Liaison
Office for the Pakistani side.
2. Such requests shall be submitted in English. In case of emergency,
requests may be made orally and shall be confirmed in writing
immediately thereafter.
3. Requests shall include the following information:

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 19
a) The name of the law enforcement agency conducting the
investigation or within whose jurisdiction the matter lies.
b) Type of the investigation to which the request for cooperation
pertains and identities of those involved in crime.
c) A description of the type of information or other cooperation
being sought.
d) The purpose for which the information or other cooperation
is being requested.
e) Deadline for the transmission of the requested information.
4. Confidentiality of all information received shall be maintained unless
the consent of the providing Party is received.
5. Each Party, in order to provide regular and direct communication,
shall communicate directly through exchange of telephone and fax
numbers of their respective security authorities dealing with the subject
included in this Agreement.
Article IV
Deferment or Refusal of Requests
The Party receiving a cooperation request may;
a) If implementation of a request is not in conformity with the
provisions of this Agreement or harmful to national security or
contrary to national legislation and interests, party or
completely reject the request.
b) If implementation of a request would interfere with its own
investigation or with judicial proceedings, defer the execution
of the request.
2- Before refusing or deferring cooperation, the Party receiving the
request shall;
Promptly inform the requesting party of the reason for refusal or
deferment,
a) Consult with the requesting party to determine whether
cooperation is possible on other mutually acceptable terms.
Costs
Article V
1. Within the scope of this Agreement, the Party implementing a
written request of the other Party shall bear all ordinary costs resulting
from fulfillment of the required procedures and initiatives.

20 IPRI Factfile
2. The requesting party shall bear all travel and accommodation costs of
its representative who would be sent to the other Party.
3. The accepting Party shall bear board and lodging expenses of the
personnel sent for training purposes but the other expenses shall be
covered by the sending Party.
4. Other extraordinary costs shall be mutually agreed upon by the
Parties before the costs are incurred.
Audit and Evaluation
Article VI
The present Agreement shall enter into force on the later of the dates on
which the Parties shall each have notified the other through diplomatic
channels that they have fulfilled all constitutional or legal requirements
and procedures necessary to give effect to this Agreement in each
country.
This Agreement is made for a period of one year; it shall be
automatically prolonged for periods of one year, unless the Parties
terminate the Agreement through diplomatic channels, at least 3 months
prior to the expiry of the Agreement.
Done in Islamabad, on 15th June 2003, each in two original copies
in Turkish and English languages, all two texts being equally authentic. In
case of divergence in the interpretation of the text, the English text shall
prevail.
Sd/- Sd/-
H.E. Ali Babacan Makhdoom Syed Faisal Saleh Hayat
State Minister for Treasury Minister for Interior
For the Government of the For the Government of the
Republic of Turkey Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXX, issue 5 (June, 2003): 264-269.
BILATERAL ROAD T RANSPORT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
G OVERNMENT OF ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN AND THE
G OVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF T URKEY,
ISLAMABAD, 15 JUNE 2003
The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and The
Government of the Republic of Turkey (hereinafter referred to

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 21
individually as a "Contracting Party" and collectively as "the Contracting
Parties")
Being desirous to facilitate transportation of passengers and goods
by road between the two countries; as well as in transit through their
territories,
Have agreed as follows:-
Scope of Application
Article 1
The provisions of this Agreement shall apply to the International carriage
of passengers and goods by road, to or from the territory of one
Contracting Party and in transit through the territory of the other
Contracting Party, by using vehicles registered in the territory of the
former Contracting Party.
Definitions
Article 2
For the purpose of this Agreement:
The term “Carrier” means any physical or juridical person authorized to
carry passengers and goods in conformity with the laws, regulations and
rules of the Contracting Parties.
The term “Vehicle” means
(i) Any power driven road vehicle built either for carriage of
passengers more than eight excluding the driver or goods or
lowing such vehicles, or
(ii) A combination comprising a vehicle as defined above and a
trailer or a semi-trailer, built for the carriage of passengers or
goods connected to it.
The term “Permit” means the permits issued for a road vehicle registered
in one of the Contracting Parties by the other Contracting Party to
permit the vehicle to enter and leave or travel through territory of the
latter as well as the other “permits” provided for by the present
Agreement.
The term “Quota” means the number of permits issued annually by the
competent authorities of the each Contracting Party.
The term “Regular Bus Service” means the carriage of passengers
between the territory of the two Contracting Parties on a prescribed
route in accordance with national schedules and tariffs.

22 IPRI Factfile
The term “Regional Transit Bus Service” a regular bus service
beginning in the territory of one Contracting Party, crossing the territory
of the other Contracting Party without leaving or taking passengers and
terminating in the territory of a third country.
The term “Schedule Service” means an organized International
transport of passengers previously grouped in accordance with their
length of stay from one and the same point of departure to one and same
point of destination and their return to the point of departure at the end
of pre-scheduled period (passengers travelling in group are all required to
return in the same group, the first return journey from and the last
journey to the point of destination will be without passengers).
The term “Closed-door Service (Tourist Transport)” means
International carriage of one and the same group of passengers in one and
the same vehicle in a tour, starting from a point in the territory of one of
the Contracting Parties where the vehicle is registered and terminating in
the same Contracting Party without taking or leaving passengers.
The term “Transit Transport” means carriage of passengers and goods
through the territory of one Contracting Party between point of
departure and destination located outside the territory of that
Contracting Party.
General Provisions
Article 3
Each Contracting Party, in conformity with the provisions of this
Agreement shall recognize the right of transit in respect of passengers,
their personal goods, commercial goods and vehicles of the other
Contracting Party over the routes to be determined by the competent
authorities of each Contracting Party.
Article 4
Subject to its national legislation, each Contracting Party shall, open
requests, issue authorization to the other Contracting Party to establish
offices and/or to appoint representatives and/or agencies in the territory
of its territory at places to be mutually agreed upon by the Contracting
Parties.
A carrier shall not act as a travel agency in the territory of the other
Contracting Party.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 23
Article 5
Either Contracting Party shall not levy any import or export tax or
charge (including customs tax) on vehicles of the other Contracting
Party, which are in transit in its territory other than:-
(a) the charges for using road network infrastructure (road and
bridge tolls);
(b) the charges to meet the expenses relating to the maintenance,
protection and administration of roads and transport; and
(c) charges, if weight, dimensions or load of the vehicle exceed
the prescribed limits in the national legislation of the
Contracting Party.
The authorized carriage in transit through the territories of the
Contracting Parties may be exempted on reciprocal basis from the
charges stipulated in paragraph (b) above.
Article 6
In case, carriers and drivers of one Contracting Party offend the
regulations of traffic and transportation while on the territory of the
other Contracting Party, the competent authorities of the latter
Contracting Party shall inform the competent authorities of the former
Contracting Party.
The competent authorities of the latter Contracting Party shall
notify the competent authorities of the former Contracting Party of the
measures taken regarding the offences indicated in the first paragraph of
this Article.
Article 7
A Joint Commission consisting of representatives of the two Contracting
Parties shall be formed. The terms of reference of the Joint Commission
are to:-
(a) supervise the proper implementation of this Agreement;
(b) determine the form, the time and the ways of exchange of
permits;
(c) study and make proposals for the solution of possible
problems not settled directly between the competent
authorities referred to in Article 24 of this agreement;

24 IPRI Factfile
(d) review all other relevant issues that fall within the scope of
this Agreement and make recommendations thereof for
settlement; and
(e) consider any other matters to be mutually agreed upon
relating to transportation.
The Joint Commission shall meet when required at the request of a
Contracting Party alternately In Turkey and Pakistan.
The Joint Commission may recommend amendments in this
Agreement and submit the same to the competent authorities of the
Contracting Parties for approval.
Article 8
The vehicles registered in the territory of a Contracting Party shall not
carry passengers and goods between any two points within the territory
of the other Contracting Party, unless a special permit from the
competent authority of the other Contracting Party is obtained. A carrier
from one Contracting Party shall not carry passengers and goods from
the territory of other Contracting Party to third countries.
Article 9
An unloaded vehicle registered in a Contracting Party shall not enter the
territory of the other Contracting Party to collect passengers and goods
to its country or to a third country unless a special permit is issued for
this purpose.
Carriage of Passengers
Article 10
A carrier of one Contracting Party shall operate a regular service to or a
regular transit service through the territory of the other Contracting
Party by obtaining a yearly permit in advance from the competent
authority of the other Contracting Party.
Article 11
The closed-door (tourist transportation) service, full out going and empty
returns and shuttle service to be performed by a vehicle registered in the
territory of the country of a Contracting Party to or from the territory

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 25
of the country of the other Contracting Party shall not be subject to the
condition of obtaining permit.
Article 12
Carriage of Goods
The carriage of goods between and transit through the territories of the
countries of the Contracting Parties shall be subject to prior permit based
on quota except the cases defined below conforming to import regime of
the Contracting Parties:
a) carriage of deceased (especially by vehicle designed for this
purpose);
b) carriage of decorative articles for theatrical performances;
c) carriage of goods equipment and animals needed for musical
performances and cinema circus and folkloric shows. Sports
activities and recording TV and radio programme;
d) carriage of works of art;
e) carriage of animals other than those for slaughtering;
f) carriage of damaged vehicles or vehicles out of operation;
g) postal carriage;
h) occasional carriage of goods to or from airports as a result of
change in flight itineraries:
i) carriage of aid material in case of natural disasters;
j) carriage of material for fairs and exhibitions; and
k) other cases to be mutually agreed upon by the Joint Commission.
Article 13
Permits shall be valid for a maximum period of one year. The permits for
the next year will be exchanged in November of every year. Additional
permits may also be exchanged with mutual agreement wherever needed
to meet the requirements of the Contracting- Parties.
A permit shall be valid for one vehicle for a single to/from journey
between and/or through the territory of the Contracting Parties and shall
be valid for the period for which it is issued. The permit shall not be
transferable.

26 IPRI Factfile
Article 14
A vehicle registered in the territory of one Contracting Party can collect
return load to that country after delivery of goods in the country of the
other Contracting Party.
Article 15
The carriage of arms, ammunitions and military equipment and
explosives between the Contracting Parties or transit through the
territory of the Contracting Party shall be subject to a special permit
obtained for this purpose.
The passage of goods prohibited from the entry in the territories of
the countries of the Contracting Parties for human, animal, plant and
sanitary purposes shall also be excluded from the right of transit.
Miscellaneous Provisions
Article 16
The Contracting Parties shall take all the measures, which they deem
necessary in order to facilitate, simplify and accelerate to the maximum,
the customs and other formalities related to carriage of passengers and
goods. The Contracting Parties also agree to use their good offices to
impress upon the neighboring countries or countries in transit to
facilitate movement and to remove any unforeseen hindrance.
Article 17
The international transport of goods in accordance with this Agreement
shall be subject to the requirement of the national laws and regulations of
the Contracting Parties.
A vehicle performing international transport by road shall hold the
necessary international documents (“tryptique or carnet de passage”)
and/or other documents required by national laws and regulations.
Article 18
Fuel in the standard fuel tanks of vehicles shall be exempted from
customs duties and all other taxes and duties. The standard fuel tank is a
tank provided by the manufacturers of vehicles. Vehicles having extra
fuel tanks would be dealt with rules and regulations of the Contracting
Parties.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 27
Article 19
A spare part which has been replaced shall either be re-exported or
destroyed under the supervision of the customs authorities or shall be
delivered to these authorities.
Imports of spare parts shall be subject to the national laws and
regulations.
Article 20
(a) A third-party-liability insurance complying with the laws and
regulations in-force in the countries of the Contracting
Parties shall be applied to a vehicle used in international
carriage or· passengers, baggage and/or goods between and/or
in transit through the territories of the countries of the
Contracting Parties.
(b) Any kind of insurance complying with the laws and
regulations in force in the country of the Contracting Party,
in which the vehicle is registered, shall be applied to
passengers, baggage and/or goods, against damages they will
have during the carriage.
Article 21
The payments between the Contracting Parties concerning transport and
transit operations shall be made in convertible currency to be accepted by
the authorized banks of the Contracting Parties in accordance with
currency laws, rules and regulations in force in the Contracting Parties.
Article 22
In cases of accidents, breakdowns or breach of national laws of countries
of the Contracting Parties, the competent authorities of the Contracting
Patty in the in the territory of whose country such an incident occurs,
shall provide the other Contracting Party with reports and results of the
inquiry and other necessary information.

28 IPRI Factfile
Article 23
Carriers and crew of the vehicles registered in the country of a
Contracting Party shall comply with the laws, rules and regulations
governing the road traffic in the country of the other Contracting Party.
Any other matters pertaining to transportation which are not
covered by this Agreement shall be subject to national legislation of the
Contracting Parties.
Article 24
The competent authorities, who are responsible for the implementation
of this Agreement, are:
a) In Turkey: b) In Pakistan:
Ulastirma Bakanligi Ministry of Communication of
Kara Ulastirmasi General Mudurluga The Government of Pakistan
Emek/Ankara Islamabad.
Article 25
All disputes concerning the interpretation and application of this
Agreement shall be settled through mutual negotiations between the
Parties.
Article 26
This Agreement shall enter into force on the date of exchange of notes
that requirements in accordance with the national legislations of the
Contracting Parties have been compiled with and shall remain in force
for a period of one year.
This Agreement shall be automatically renewed for periods of one
year, unless either Contracting Party expresses its wish in writing to the
other Contracting Party to terminate it, at least three months prior to the
date of expiry.
Done and signed in two original copies in English, in Islamabad, on
June 15, 2003.
Sd/H.E. Binali Yildirim Sd/Ahmad Ali
Minister of Transport Minister for Communications
Government of the Government of the
Republic of Turkey Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXX, issue 5 (June 2003): 253-263.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 29
BANQUET SPEECHES BY THE PRIME MINISTERS OF
PAKISTAN AND T URKEY
Banquet Speech by the Prime Minister of Pakistan
Your Excellency
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Edogan,
(pronounced as Rejeb Tayyeb Edoan)
Madam Emine Erdogan
(pronounced as Eminay Rrdoan)
Excellencies
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen
Your presence in Pakistan today at the head of high level delegation
eloquently defines the deep-rooted friendship that exists between our two
countries. I extend to you, Excellency, and to your delegation, a very
warm welcome.
Though Pakistan and Turkey are apart geographically, we share
manifold affinities. We are united by faith, common heritage, shared
civilization and commonality of interest. The Turkish imprint on our
history and culture is indelible. Our people have a natural empathy and
take pride in solidarity with each other.
The foundations of Turkey-Pakistan relations are secure and strong.
However, the imperatives of today, of a changed and changing world,
demand that we expand our horizons and diversify our relations. To
further strengthen our political relations, we need to build and
consolidate bilateral institutional linkages. We attach great importance to
strengthening the economic dimension of our bilateral ties with Turkey
and feel that the present volume of Turky investment in Pakistan and the
flow of two-way trade do not adequately reflect the potential.
I am convinced that both Turkey and Pakistan stand to benefit
immensely by closer interaction with each other. In fields such as
construction, telecommunications, energy and power, agro-business,
food-processing and environmental technology, our needs and expertise
are complimentary.

30 IPRI Factfile
Excellency,
We want Afghanistan to once again become a peaceful, independent and
prosperous state that lives in harmony with its neighbours and the
international community. Like Turkey, we are committed to the Bonn
process and will continue to support the Administration of President
Hamid Karzai.
A political process in Afghanistan will have a greater chance of
success and durability when coupled with assistance for reconstruction
and rehabilitation. A massive international effort will have to be mounted
to revive the devastated infrastructure and economy of Afghanistan and
for the repatriation of millions of refugees in Pakistan, who left their
country due to the conflict, drought and economic difficulties.
Excellency,
Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and has
been the first country to join the international coalition in the war
against terror. Pakistan and Turkey have always sought peace and
stability, regionally as well as globally.
While combating international terrorism, the world community
must also address, simultaneously, the root causes of terrorism,
particularly economic deprivation, inequality, injustice, foreign
occupation, denial of fundamental rights and oppression. Without
addressing and resolving festering problems, an enduring solution to the
problem of extremism and terrorism cannot be achieved. The
international community must also maintain the clear distinction
between terrorism and the struggle for national liberation and selfdetermination.
Such struggles must never be equated with terrorism, for
that would be against the spirit of international law and morality, would
encourage and reward the occupier and the oppressor at the expense of
the victim of oppression and occupation. Such an order would be
immoral, unjust, and inherently unstable.
Excellency,
The people of Jammu and Kashmir have been struggling for their right to
self-determination pledged to them by the UN Security Council more
than half a century back. They have been victims of Indian occupation-
and the worst forms of repression. In the last decade alone more than
75,000 defenceless Kashmiri men, women and children have been
callously slaughtered by Indian security forces. The Kashmiri people,

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 31
victims of a vicious onslaught by the Indian forces, remain unbowed.
Their valiant struggle for their right to self-determination is cynically
sought to be portrayed by India as terrorism. The Kashmiris must be
granted their inalienable right to determine their own future.
It is in the same spirit that Pakistan has supported a just and
peaceful settlement of the Cyprus issue on the basis of a bi-communal bizonal
federal structure. We will continue to support your efforts for
resolution of the ongoing problem in Cyprus.
Excellency,
Palestine remains one of the major challenges facing the Muslim Ummah.
Israeli atrocities against innocent, unarmed civilians continue unabated.
Israel's blatant occupation of Palestinian territories goes on. We have
always supported the Palestinians in their just struggle against Israeli
oppression and will continue to do so. The Palestinians deserve a
homeland of their own.
Excellency,
We are deeply concerned over the anarchy and chaos that followed
coalition take over of Iraq. Governance of Iraq is the right of the Iraqi
people and it should be restored to them as soon as possible. The
territorial integrity and sovereignty of Iraq must be preserved along with
its rights over its natural resources. The UN should have a central role in
shaping the future of Iraq. The humanitarian and basic needs of the
people of Iraq must be fulfilled. The reconstruction of Iraq must begin, as
soon as possible.
To strengthen our endeavours at the regional plane, the Economic
Cooperation Organization (ECO) represents the hopes of its members
for the expansion of economic and commercial relations. Pakistan and
Turkey are also linked through D-8 and at a wider scale in the
Organization of Islamic Conference. The current challenges faced by the
Islamic world require a deep re-evaluation to convert the resources of the
Ummah into tangible assets of cooperation and development.
Mr. Prime Minister,
I take this opportunity to reaffirm our abiding friendship with Turkey. I
am confident that this friendship will continue to grow stronger. It is
incumbent upon us to consolidate this concrete and traditional friendship

32 IPRI Factfile
further and pass it on to our future generations. I look forward to
working with you for realization of this noble objective.
I now invite the distinguished guests to join me in conveying my
best wishes for the:-
• Health, happiness and prosperity of Prime Minister Erdogan and
Madam Erdogan;
• Continued progress and prosperity of the fraternal people of
Turkey; and
• The long lasting friendship between Turkey and Pakistan.
Pakistan - Turkey friendship Paindabad
Return Speech by the Prime Minister of Turkey
H.E. Prime Minister, Ministers,
Distinguished Guests,
I would like to than you for your kind words about myself and my
country. Your words are the very good expression of the deep-rooted
friendship and brotherly relations between our countries and peoples. We
treasure the special relationship which we are determined to preserve
forever and even further strengthen this heritage.
I would also like to thank you for the warm and generous
hospitality extended to us during this official visit. Indeed, we feel at
home in your country for which we cherish affection.
Turkey and Pakistan are two countries whose friendship has
successfully stood every test of time. This friendship and brotherhood
that has reflected itself in our peoples are based on a common history and
culture as well as a shared vision. The interaction between our peoples
who have a rich cultural heritage has lasted for centuries. This friendship
that has such a strong foundation naturally has a firm character.
The feelings of affection and friendship between the two peoples
constitute an unprecedented example of solidarity in this world where
relationships are rather based on concrete interests. To the extent that
other countries and peoples take this unique friendship and solidarity as
an example, it will be easier to have a more peaceful and orderly world
order.
Pakistan is one of the key countries in the region. In the aftermath
of the terrorist attacks on September 11, the determination and the
crucial support Pakistan has shown in the fight against terrorism and
fundamentalist radical movements have been well appreciated by the

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 33
international community. We strongly support the contributions your
country is making to the regional and global security and stability, as well
as your reformist policies towards modernization and progress. Turkey
will always stand by your side in these efforts.
We welcome the democratic developments in Pakistan, the
reestablishment of the parliament and the formation of the new
Government as a result of elections.
Mr. Prime Minister,
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you once again and
wish you success. The brotherly people of Pakistan are a dynamic and
hardworking society dedicated to social and economic progress. We are
sure that Pakistan, inspired by Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah will
continue to progress in her quest to become a modern and developed
society.
Mr. Prime Minister, Esteemed Ministers, Distinguished Guests,
Our meetings today have once again indicated our convergence of views
on many issues. We are determined to deepen and diversify our
cooperation, especially in the economic and commercial areas. The
agreements we signed today very good evidence of this. Global economic
trends and globalization provide many opportunities to us in order to
intensify our economic and commercial relations. Our relations in these
areas must reach the level of our political cooperation. We are happy to
see that a political will to this effect exists on both sides.
The traditional solidarity shown by Turkey and Pakistan on
international issues concerning the two countries is a source of great
happiness to us. We are grateful for the valuable support your country
has been giving us on the Cyprus issue.
Turkey will continue to support Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. We
hope that the Kashmir issue will be resolved in the shortest time possible
through dialogue by Pakistan and India. We sincerely hope that this new
process of dialogue will yield positive results.
Mr. Prime Minister,
Distinguished Guests,
Turkey and Pakistan are countries that have adopted the philosophy of
peace and cooperation. While we continue our deep attachment to the
principle of "Peace at home, peace in the world" of our great leader, the

34 IPRI Factfile
founder of the Turkish Republic, Kemal Ataturk: Pakistan has adopted
the principle of "Friends, with all, enmity with none" by Quaid-i-Azam
Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Another common motto that unites our
countries is to continue eternally the friendship between Pakistan and
Turkey and the brotherhood between the peoples of Turkey and
Pakistan.
I have personally experiencing during this visit the depth of the
unique friendship and brotherhood between our countries and peoples, I
would like to express my best wishes for the happiness and prosperity of
yourself and the people of Pakistan.
Pakistan Zindabad: Turkey Payindabad
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXX, issue 5 (June 2003): 7-14.
SPEECH BY PRESIDENT G ENERAL PERVEZ MUSHARRAF AT
THE L UNCHEON IN HONOUR OF MR. RECEP T AYYIP
ERDOGAN, PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY,
16 JUNE, 2003
Your Excellency
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan,
(pronounced as Rejeb Tayyeb Erdogan)
Madam Emine Erdogan
(pronounced as Eminay Erdoan)
Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen
I would like to extend a warm welcome to you Mr. Prime Minister
Madam Erdogan and members of your delegation.
The relations between our two countries are rooted in shared
history, a common cultural heritage and reflect the aspiration of our two
peoples as well as the commitment of the leadership in our two countries.
There is an abiding affection and admiration of the people of Pakistan for
Turkey.
The commitment to our shared ideals and the desire to further
strengthen the bonds of friendship and brotherhood, continue to be the
moving spirit across the entire spectrum of Pakistan Turkey relations.
There is the unique warmth, cordiality, mutual trust and understanding

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 35
among our peoples. This is amply reflected in the support that we extend
to each other in international forums on issues of mutual interest.
The four agreements signed yesterday, to further promote political
and economic interaction between our countries, are ample testimony of
our collective resolve to provide new dimensions to our time tested and
time honoured friendship.
Excellency,
This region has been witness to profound developments in the past
couple of years. We greatly appreciate the positive developments in
Afghanistan. It is encouraging that the processes for rebuilding of the
state and political institutions have commenced there. The raising of the
army and the effective demobilization, disarmament and reintegration of
combatants constitute the linchpin of security sector reform. The positive
developments will help to implement the Bonn Agreement. The drafting
and ratification of the new constitution will be a very important step
towards the building of State institutions.
Pakistan remains committed to the Bonn Process and has been
extending full support to the Government of President Hamid Karazai,
Pakistan desires the establishment of durable peace in Afghanistan. It
would not allow its territory to be used in any way, which is detrimental
to the achievement of this objective.
We greatly appreciate the role Turkey played in the International
Security Force for Afghanistan (ISAF). It is yet another manifestation of
Turkey's abiding interest in being a standard bearer of peace.
The festering Kashmir dispute has been bedeviling relations
between Pakistan and India and also vitiating the environment of peace
and security in South Asia for more than half a century. We want a
negotiated settlement of .all issues with India. Pakistan's position is based
on UN Security Council Resolutions, which provide that the final
disposition of Jammu and Kashmir will be made in accordance with the
will of the people expressed through a plebiscite under UN auspices.
Pakistan wishes to resolve all its disputes with India peacefully. We are
prepared to engage in a comprehensive dialogue with India on Kashmir
dispute and all other outstanding issues.
We are beholden to Turkey for its support for our principled
position on Kashmir dispute. On the issue of Cyprus, we will continue to
support your efforts till a just settlement acceptable to the Turkish
Cypriot community in Cyprus, is found.

36 IPRI Factfile
Israel blatant occupation of Palestinian territories and repression of
our Palestinian brethren continue unabated. We have always supported
the Palestinians in their just struggle against Israeli oppression and will
continue to do so. The Palestinians deserve a homeland of their own.
We are deeply concerned about the anarchy and chaos that
followed coalition take over of major Iraqi cities. Governance of Iraq is
the right of the Iraqi people and it should be restored to them as soon as
possible. The territorial integrity and sovereignty of Iraq must be
preserved along with its rights over its natural resources. The UN should
have a central role in shaping the future of Iraq. The humanitarian and
basic needs of the people of Iraq must be fulfilled.
It is a matter of immense· satisfaction that cooperation between our
two countries particularly in the security sphere is being strengthened.
The march of events, particularly in the Middle East, make it incumbent
upon us to work closely for peace and security in the region.
It is our earnest desire that in keeping with the global trends,
economic interaction assumes the centre stage in relations between our
countries. I am glad that a delegation of Turkish businessmen is
accompanying you on your visit to Pakistan. It will be our endeavour to
further strengthen economic relations with Turkey.
Let me conclude by saying that your current visit to Pakistan has
provided a fresh impetus to the bilateral relations and has promoted
greater identity of views on major global and regional issues. I hope you
would be able to visit us again.
May I request the distinguished guests to join me in proposing a
toast to Pakistan-Turkey friendship, for the continued progress and
prosperity of the brotherly people of Turkey as well as for health,
happiness and wellbeing of Prime Minister Erdogan.
Long live Pakistan-Turkey friendship.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXX, issue 5 (June, 2003): 3-6.
COOPERATION WITH TURKEY
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Islamabad has further
strengthened Turkish-Pakistan relations and underlined the identity of
views between the two countries on a broad range of issues. The talks Mr
Erdogan had with President Musharraf and Prime Minister Zafarullah
Khan Jamali were marked by a common perception of some of the
burning issues of the day, including the situation in South Asia,

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 37
Afghanistan, Cyprus and Iraq. On South Asia, Mr Erdogan supported the
normalization moves now under way and said his government stood for a
peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue. Force, he said, could not solve
the Kashmir issue. On Iraq, both believed that nothing should be done to
threaten the nation’s unity and integrity. As Iraq’s neighbour, Turkey has
a vital interest in what goes on in the oil-rich region to its south, more so
because it has a Kurdish majority. Because the contiguous Turkish area
has a sizable Kurdish population, Ankara is keen on checking any
fissiparous tendencies in Iraq. It goes without saying that Pakistan shares
Turkey’s perception of Iraq and believes in maintaining its territorial
integrity.
The sad fact in the wider Middle Eastern context is that the regional
countries have failed to play any meaningful role in preserving peace and
stability in the region and in safeguarding their collective interests. In the
Iraqi crisis, the Muslim and Arab governments were more pusillanimous
or obeisant than positive in their action and reaction. Even more startling
was the passivity of the two Arab and Muslim groupings — the Arab
League and the Organization of Islamic Conference, both of which
looked the other way as the Iraqi crisis unfolded till it reached the
dreadful denouement. While it is true that the odds the Muslim world is
up against are forbidding, what any observer of the Middle Eastern scene
cannot fail to note is that the AL and OIC did not take into consideration
their advantages. The huge land mass and its strategic location, the Arab-
Muslim demographic strength, and the oil wealth — all do not seem to
count for much with the Arab and Islamic governments. For some
reason, regime considerations seem to overweigh national and Muslim
considerations.
Against this harsh reality, Pakistan and Turkey would do well to
deepen bilateral cooperation to promote their economic and security
interests. The fraternal bond between Turkey and the Muslims of South
Asia dates back to the pre-independence days. The Turks have not
forgotten the help given by the subcontinent’s Muslims during Turkey’s
war of independence. These feelings of brotherhood and solidarity were
strengthened after the emergence of Pakistan. One hopes the two
governments would continue to strive for bringing their peoples even
closer. There is enormous scope for enhancing cooperation in economy,
trade, tourism, and science and technology. The two countries are
endowed with enormous natural resources and have pools of scientific
and skilled manpower. Yet the volume of trade between the two stands at

38 IPRI Factfile
a negligible 156 million dollars. There is room for greater Turkish
investment in Pakistan and for joint projects. The fact that the Turkish
prime minister’s entourage included 110 businessmen showed Turkey’s
desire to increase trade and economic cooperation with Pakistan. During
the visit, the two sides signed three memorandums of understanding on
road transport, drug trafficking and environment. One hopes the two
governments will follow up the results achieved in this visit and will
continue to make efforts to widen the scope of mutually beneficial trade
and other forms of cooperation.
Editorial, Dawn (Islamabad), June 19, 2003,
http://www.dawn.com/2003/06/19/ed.htm
COOPERATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE G OVERNMENT OF
THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN AND THE
G OVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF T URKEY ON F IGHT
AGAINST INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM AND O RGANIZED
CRIME, ANKARA, 20 JANUARY 2004
The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the
Government of the Republic of Turkey (hereinafter referred to
individually as "a Party" and collectively as "the Parties").
Re-affirming the existing friendly relations between the two
countries,
Keeping in mind the provisions of the 1970 UNESCO Convention
on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export
and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property,
Concerned about the danger caused by international terrorism a
international organized crime,
Keeping in mind the concern about the close relations between
international terrorism and international organized crime,
Willing to strengthen and deepen the existing cooperation between
the security authorities of the two countries in fight against international
terrorism and international organized crime,
Acting by the principle of equality and mutual benefit,
Have agreed on the following articles:

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 39
Areas of Cooperation
Article I
1. In accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, the Parties shall
cooperate in prevention and investigation of the following crimes:-
a) terrorism,
b) any form of organized crime recognized in the legal systems of
the two Parties,
c) fiscal or commercial crimes including offences related to
money laundering and the proceeds of crime,
d) violations of rules of immigration and travel, visa, residence
and employment including forgery in passport, visa and other
official documents,
e) illegal acquisition, import or export of cultural and historical
treasures.
2. The Parties shall cooperate in the training field in order to improve
crime prevention and investigation skills of their staff or to develop their
knowledge and experience.
3. The Parties shall provide each other technical assistance with regard to
the technical equipment used by the police forces of the two countries.
4. The Parties may agree to cooperate in any other areas of mutual
interest.
Forms of Cooperation
Article II
The cooperation between the Parties mentioned in Article I shall be in
the following forms:-
a) exchange of information on crimes being planned, crimes in
progress or crimes committed,
b) exchange of information on organized crime networks,
structures of such organizations, identities of their members
and also their modus operandi,
c) location and identification of persons being sought by the
Police,
d) location, identification and examination of the objects and
the parties involved in an incident,
e) exchange of information obtained through investigation,

40 IPRI Factfile
f) exchange of knowledge and experience, legislative or
regulatory documents and relevant scientific and technical
information,
g) exchange of experts,
h) organizing Joint Commission Meetings.
Article III
The procedure for cooperation, referred to in Article 1, shall be as
follows:
1. requests for cooperation will be submitted to the department of
Foreign Relations of the General Directorate of Security of the
Ministry of Interior, Government of the Republic of turkey and
the Federal Investigation Agency, Ministry of Interior,
Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. They are
designated and shall function as Liaison Offices,
2. such requests shall be submitted in English. In case of emergency,
requests may be made orally and shall be confirmed in writing
immediately thereafter, requests shall include the following
information:-
a) the name of the law enforcement agency conducting the
investigation or within whose jurisdiction the matter lies,
b) type of investigation to which the request for cooperation
pertains and identities of those involved in the crime,
c) a description of the type of information for other
cooperation being sought,
d the purpose for which the information or other
cooperation is being requested,
e) deadline for the transmission of the requested information.
3. confidentiality of al information received shall be maintained
unless the consent of the providing Party is received.
Article IV
Deferment or Refusal of Requests
1. The Party receiving a request for cooperation may,
a) if implementation of the request is not in conformity with
the provisions of this Agreement or harmful to national

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 41
security or contrary to national legislation and interests,
partly or completely refuse to implement such request,
b) if implementation of the request is likely to interfere its
own investigation or judicial proceedings, defer the
implementation.
2. Before refusing or deferring the implementation of the request, the
receiving Party shall:-
a) promptly inform the requesting Party of the reason for
refusal or deferment,
b) consult with the requesting Party to determine whether
cooperation is possible on other mutually acceptable terms.
Costs
Article V
1. Within the scope of this Agreement, the Party making a written
request to the other Party shall bear al ordinary costs for fulfillment of
the requirement procedures and initiatives.
2. The requesting Party shall also bear all travel and accommodation costs
of its representative, sent to the other Party.
3. Other extraordinary costs shall be mutually agreed upon by the
Parties, before the costs are incurred.
Audit and Evaluation
Article VI
The Parties shall establish a Joint Commission comprising authorities
from the Parties to evaluate cooperation and to determine and eliminate
defects in the cooperation. The Commission shall, upon the request of
either Party and on the basis of mutual approval, meet alternately in
Turkey and Pakistan.
Settlement of Disputes
Article VII
All disputes concerning interpretation and application of this Agreement
shall be settled through mutual negotiations.

42 IPRI Factfile
Article into Force
Article VIII
1. This Agreement shall enter into force on the date of the receipt of
second notification by which the Parties notify the completion of their
respective internal procedures.
2. This Agreement shall remain in force for a period of one year and shall
be automatically renewed for one year periods unless either Party
informs the other Party, through diplomatic channels, at least three
months prior to the expiry of the validity period of this Agreement of its
intention to terminate this Agreement.
Done on 15 th day of June 2003 in English and Turkish languages,
both texts being equally authentic. In case of any discrepancy in the text
or disagreement in interpretation, the English text shall prevail.
Sd/- Sd/-
(Riaz H. Khokhar) Secretary (Sahabettin Harput) Action Under
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secretary Ministry of Interior
On Behalf of the Government On Behalf of the Government
Of the Republic of Pakistan of the Islamic Republic of Turkey
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXXI, issue 1 (January 2004): 265-270.
PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS TO THE T URKISH G RAND NATIONAL
ASSEMBLY ON 20 JANUARY 2004
Honourable Mr. Speaker,
Honourable Prime Minister,
Distinguished Members of the
Parliament, Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I wish to convey my profound gratitude for your gracious invitation to
me to speak to the distinguished members of the Turkish
Grand National Assembly on Pakistan's relations with Turkey and major
contemporary issues.
I feel especially privileged in addressing you because I know that
yours is one of the most vocal and influential parliaments in the Western
and Muslim Countries. Amongst your ranks, you have distinguished

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 43
lawyers, engineers, businessmen, and economists. Above all, you are all
strong advocates of strong relations between Pakistan and Turkey.
We take pride in the fact that Pakistan and Turkey have a special
and robust relationship. Faith and kinship, cultural mores and common
historical experiences bind us together and make our ties deep-rooted
and timeless. These affinities spanning over centuries
have culminated into a relationship that is unique in its warmth and
Cordiality, trust and understanding. To our profound gratification, these
fraternal feelings grow ever stronger as the years pass by.
Our two people share values, experiences and history going back
to centuries. This live synergy underpins our identical perceptions on
the evolving international and regional situations. The homogeneity that
permeates our psyche makes me feel at home in the beloved country of
Turkey as if I were amongst my own people.
The Muslims of the subcontinent, much before the creation of
Pakistan, had felt a deep empathy for the people of Turkey and their
struggle for national independence under the dynamic and inspiring
leadership of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Since that period, Mustafa Kemal
has been a household name for the Muslims of South Asia. The
memories of the Khilafat Movement have lived down several
generations. Mustafa Kamal Ataturk, your founding father, was an icon
in the subcontinent, inspired our own independence movement.
Since the establishment of Pakistan in 1947, our two countries
have developed mutual trust that has enabled us to unreservedly support
and assist each other in hours of crises.
We seek peace and stability, regionally as well as globally. Our
efforts in this respect have, however, been frequently thwarted by wars,
conflicts, strife and belligerence in our neighborhoods. Different
standards have been applied to similar situations. Some countries have
been pursuing hegemonic policies. The purposes and principles of the
Charter and the dictates of international law have been frequently
disregarded. As a consequence, we are witnessing the evolution of a new
world disorder in which power brokers can commit aggression with
impunity and the victims are obliged to bear the costs. We have seen
injustice in Cyprus, in Kashmir, and in Palestine.
Mr. Speaker,
The world today is wracked by turbulence and uncertainty. We are
passing through unusual and difficult times. We are negotiating a

44 IPRI Factfile
wrenching transition. The terrorists have caused havoc by targeting
many parts of the world, most recently in Turkey and Pakistan. But we
would not let them hold our societies hostage to their evil designs. These
terrorists have brought a bad name to Islam, which is a faith of peace,
amity and co-existence.
Our globe has become a dangerous place. The gap of
misunderstanding between the West and the Islamic world is widening.
Both perceive that they threaten each other's vital interests. Some are
predicting a clash of civilizations. We must avert a drift towards this clash
and build a global neighbourhood infused with the spirit of peace and
harmony. In this regard, both Pakistan and Turkey, who espouse
moderation, have a key role to play.
The Islamic world is caught in this emerging global crisis. Sadly,
most areas under foreign occupation are Muslim lands. We are witnessing
the tragedies of Palestine and Kashmir. Islamic nations are perceived as
the sponsors of terrorism and proliferators of weapons of mass
destruction. Muslims are subjected to discrimination and exclusion.
Mr. Speaker,
We are at a defining moment in history; we can either seize the moment
and define history, or let the moment define our destiny. We must turn
challenge into opportunity. We must reflect and act - quickly and
collectively - for the sake of the future generations and to alleviate the
sufferings of our peoples.
I believe that the way forward is the "Enlightened Moderation",
through the pursuit of a two-pronged strategy. The Muslim world
should commence a process of internal reform and renewal by focussing
on science and technology and human resource development.
The West should come forward not only to help the Islamic
countries social and economic development, but also resolve political
disputes involving Muslims, especially Kashmir and Palestine.
Collectively, the Islamic nations should make a concerted effort to
reform the OIC, which has the potential to become the articulator of
the Islamic interests and a vehicle for enlightenment. A clash of
civilization is inconceivable for Muslims. In our own interest and in the
interest of the Global Society, the world must join hands to avert this
disaster. We should take the lead in pioneering a new global pact
between civilizations.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 45
With the Muslim world executing one prong of the strategy of
rejecting extremism in favour of self, it is in the wider interest of the
international community to simultaneously deliver the second pincer in
the Strategy of Enlightened Moderation for global peace and harmony.
It was in this spirit that I had suggested at the Tenth OIC summit
in Malaysia, in October 2003, that we must evolve and execute a clear
strategy and plan of action. I had proposed a two-pronged strategy of
"Enlightened Moderation" to advance the internal and external
aspirations of the Islamic world.
It is a matter of immense satisfaction that this proposal received
overwhelming support at the OIC Summit and a Commission is being
set up to formulate its recommendations at an extraordinary OIC
Summit to be held by the end of this year. In this regard, Turkey has an
important role to playas Chairman of the next Islamic Conference of
Foreign Ministers (ICFM) to be held in Istanbul, later this year, when
the interim report of the Commission will be taken up. I am sure that
your country will act as a catalyst in this process.
Mr. Speaker,
I would take this opportunity to reiterate our firm support to the
brotherly Turkish people of Kibris who are fighting for a just and
legitimate cause. Pakistan has been closely following the UN
sponsored talks on the Cyprus issue. We agree with that an
environment of confidence between the two Island communities
is a pre-requisite to any progress on the substantive aspects of the
dispute. I reaffirm Pakistan's strong commitment to a bi-zonal, bicommunal
solution of the long-standing problem in Cyprus.
Mr. Speaker,
Pakistan and India cannot remain enemies forever. For more than half a
century, the festering Kashmir dispute has bedeviled relations between
Pakistan and India as well as vitiated the environment of peace and
security in South Asia, which is home to one fifth of the humanity.
The 12 th SAARC Summit, held in Islamabad this month, was a
significant watershed. We would try to make SAARC a vibrant and
dynamic organization capable of promoting greater economic and
commercial connectivity amongst the peoples of South Asia. The
Summit approved framework of South Asia Free Trade Agreement,
adopted a Social Charter, devised concrete measures to alleviate poverty

46 IPRI Factfile
and approved an additional protocol to SAARC Regional Convention
on Terrorism.
In order to achieve durable peace in South Asia, it is imperative
that the long-standing Kashmir dispute and other differences between
Pakistan and India are resolved by peaceful means. Hopes for peace were
rekindled when I visited Agra in July 2001, but that initiative
unfortunately did not succeed. Later in 2002, the region was sucked into
a cycle of confrontation because of Indian troop mobilization along the
Line of Control and the international bolder.
This vicious cycle was broken, when last year both Pakistan and
India announced a raft of Confidence Building Measures (CBMs),
including cease-fire along the LOC, resumption of air, road and rail links
as well as return of the High Commissioners to their respective posts.
On January 5 this year, we took a fresh start when I met Mr. Atal
Bihari Vajpayee, the Indian Prime Minister, in Islamabad. [We] agreed to
resume a Composite Dialogue process to address all issues including
Kashmir dispute, which is at the heart of Pakistan-India tensions.
This is historic moment for the people of Pakistan, India and the
Kashmiris. Our ultimate objective is to steer this process towards a
composite, sustained and meaningful dialogue, so that we can resolve all
outstanding issues. We want to usher in an era of peace and security in
the region and work towards collective economic development. With
vision and statesmanship, we can move forward. With rigidity and
negativity, we will only slide back.
I would like to express profound gratitude for the solidarity that
the government and people of Turkey have always shown for their
Kashmiri brethren. Your constant and unequivocal support has been a
source of strength for Pakistan and the Kashmiri people.
Mr. Speaker,
The sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan remains a corner
stone of our foreign policy. We have a strong desire to see the return of
peace and stability to Afghanistan. Pakistan remains firmly committed to
the Bonn Process and endeavours of President Karzai for national
reconciliation and reconstruction of Afghanistan.
We are committed to assisting Afghanistan in its quest for peace
and stability. We have already pledged US $ 100 for the reconstruction in
Afghanistan. Pakistan continues to host millions of Afghan refugees. The
adoption of a constitution by the Loya Jirga augurs well for the country

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 47
and will facilitate a durable democratic political dispensation, as well as
presidential and parliamentary elections, this year.
We hope that the ISAF would extend its operations to the entire
territory of Afghanistan to ensure security and thereby to facilitate
reconstruction and the fruition of the Bonn process.
Iraq remains an open wound on the body politic of the Muslim
world. International approach to Iraq's future must be guided by the
objective of restoring Iraq's sovereignty and political independence;
ensuring its unity and territorial integrity; upholding the right of the
Iraqi people to determine their own future and control over their natural
resources. The political stabilization processes in Iraq should involve and
be owned by the Iraqi people, and be led by the United Nations. Pakistan
and Turkey share common concerns and perspectives on the future
political architecture of Iraq.
Palestine remains one of the major challenges facing the Muslim
Ummah. Israeli atrocities against innocent, unarmed civilians continue
unabated. We have always supported the Palestinians in their just struggle
against Israeli oppression, and will continue to do so. The Palestinians
deserve a homeland of their own. We hope that international efforts
would result in creating two sovereign states Palestine and Israel - living
side by side in peace and harmony.
Honorable Members of Parliament,
As founding members of Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO),
Turkey and Pakistan need to step up their efforts to strengthen this
organization. The ECO represents our best hope for the expansion of
trade and commercial relations on a much wider scale. Due to our geostrategic
location, Turkey and Pakistan can playa pivotal role as hubs for
the flow of energy resources from land locked Central Asian countries to
Europe and the Far East, respectively. As fast growing economies and
functioning democracies, both stand as stable conduits for secure transit
of vital energy required by the West and the East.
Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Let me briefly touch on the economic aspect of our bilateral ties.
Pakistan-Turkey economic relations are not commensurate with the high
level of political relations that exist between the two countries. Steps
should be taken to increase bilateral trade to US dollars one billion
annually. Well, the two sides are taking such steps. We expect this

48 IPRI Factfile
cooperation to increase significantly as Pakistan undertakes more
ambitious programmes in the vital sectors of infrastructure, energy and
other walks of life.
Though these are impressive developments, we certainly need to do
more. Together, Pakistan and Turkey have a market of more than 210
million people. Our two countries have vibrant private sectors, and our
people are imbued with an exceptional entrepreneurial spirit. The
governments must act as a catalyst in building partnerships between our
businesses and enterprises. The Pakistan-Turkey Joint Economic
Commission and the Joint Business Council provide ideal forums for
productive interaction between our public and private sectors.
Mr. Speaker,
I would like to conclude my remarks with my best wishes to the friendly
and brotherly people of Turkey, with prayers for the progress and
prosperity of your great country, and with the reiteration of the firm
resolve that we shall take our strong ties to an even higher plane in the
future.
The vision for our two nations has been given by our founding
fathers. Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah defined our political
ethos by affirming that we want "Peace Within and Peace Without".
Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, also said "Peace at Home, Peace in the World".
This interface in our guiding visions is not a coincidence
YASASIN TURK-PAKISTAN KARDESLIGI
(Long Live Turk-Pakistan Brotherhood)
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXXI, issue 1 (January 2004): 249-257.
ADDRESS BY THE PRESIDENT TO THE T URKISH BUSINESS
COMMUNITY IN ISTANBUL ON 21 JANUARY 2004
H.E. Mr. Kursad Tuzmen,
State Minister for Foreign Trade & Customs
Mr. Rifat Hisarciklicglu,
Chairman,
Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK)
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am grateful for the lunch hosted for me and members of my delegation
by the Foreign Economic Relations Board and the opportunity to share

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 49
my thoughts with the leaders of the Turkish business community on
economic relations between our two countries.
I understand that some of the distinguished leaders of Turkish
business community who are attending this function are already engaged
in initiatives for promotion of economic relations between our two
countries. Some guests had already visited Pakistan in June last year,
alongwith H.E. Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister of Turkey.
It is a matter of immense satisfaction that our two countries have
traditionally enjoyed close and cordial relations characterized by regular
exchange of high level visits and shared perceptions on major global and
regional issues.
Fortunately, political relations over the years have continued to
flourish. But the sad reality is that economic interaction between Pakistan
and Turkey is not commensurate with the potential and opportunities.
The bilateral trade is stagnating at US$ 250 millions per annum. The Joint
Economic Commission headed by Ministers for Finance, which has been
mandated to meet annually to devise ways and means to strengthen
economic relations, has not met since 2002.
I have undertaken my current visit to Turkey to discuss ways and
means to enhance the bilateral economic relations. It is our earnest desire
that in keeping with the global trends, bilateral economic interaction
should resume the centre stage in relations between our two countries.
When I assumed office in October 1999, our economy due to
mismanagement and poor governance was in a state of disarray. My first
priority was to facilitate economic recovery. My economic team led by
Finance Minister Shaukat Aziz in the last four years has put in place
measures, which have helped stabilize and improve the economy. The
measures not only have put the economy back on track. We are now on
growth projectory. Pakistan is now an attractive destination for foreign
investors and entrepreneurs.
I would like to recount some positive developments which have
contributed to the economic recovery in the country:
• Budgetary deficit has been reduced & fiscal and current
account positions have been improved significantly.
• Manufacturing sector has witnessed substantial growth.
• New Taxation policies have triggered increased tax revenues
and reduced inflation rate.
• Exchange rate has been stabilized: Foreign exchange reserves
have increased to above US$ 12.0 billions.

50 IPRI Factfile
Public debt to GDP ratio has declined appreciably.
• We will pre-pay high cost external debt of US$ one billion
shortly.
• Export growth has reduced Trade deficit.
• Privatization & Deregulation Programme are being
accelerated.
• Banks have become healthier and profitable with cleaner
balance sheets.
• Interest rates are low.
• Wide-ranging reforms in Capital Market have been effected
and stock markets are now in flourishing business.
• Our credit rating has been upgraded by international credit
rating agencies.
• Tax rates are being reduced gradually.
• Medium and long-term Trade & Investment Policies have
been framed.
The reform process will continue to build on what has been
achieved. To improve governance and management of the economy, we
have also taken a number of steps which have in turn positively
contributed to the economic recovery including:
• Corporate governance and fiscal transparency have been
introduced.
• Regulatory Authorities have been set-up for electronic media,
Oil & Gas, Power & Telecom sectors.
• A Board of Investment Ordinance has strengthened this
major Investment Organization.
• Privatization Ordinance has laid down the ground rules.
• Bureaucratic procedures are being simplified.
• Law & Order situation has improved.
We have opened all sectors of economy to direct foreign
investment. Pakistan offers highly attractive opportunities to foreign
investors and entrepreneurs in the following sectors:
• Oil & Gas (On-shore, Offshore).
• IT & Telecom.
• Agriculture including Corporate Agricultural Farming,
Livestock, Dairy farming and Fisheries.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 51
• Food Processing & Packaging.
• Textile & allied industry.
• Retail Business including Food Chains, Departmental stores.
• Leather products including Shoes, Bags and Garments.
• Small and Medium Enterprises.
• Health, Education and Technical Training.
• Infrastructure including Roads, Ports, Airports, Oil & Gas
Pipelines, Hotels& Tourist Resorts, Industrial Parks.
Foreign private investment is fully protected under our laws. We have
entered into Agreements on Avoidance of Double Taxation and other
bilateral investment Agreements with a number of countries, including
Turkey.
In addition to one window facilitation, no permission from
government is required to invest; production cost are low; quality
telecom facilities are available; export processing zone has been put in
place; and industrial estates have been set-up throughout the country.
Foreign investment is accorded treatment at par with local
investment. Capital, profits, dividends and gains etc. of foreign investors
are fully repatriable. Our track record speaks for itself as foreign
investment in the country has never been nationalized or has faced any
difficulty.
Besides being a large market of 150 million people, Pakistan is
located at the crossroads of three important regions with easy access to
markets in Central Asia, Middle East and South Asia.
In short, our investment policy is the most liberal in the region and
incentives offered to foreign investors are most attractive. I would like to
invite you to avail of economic opportunities in Pakistan and play your
due role in promotion of economic cooperation between our two
countries.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXXI, issue 1 (January, 2004): 258-262.
A REPORT ON THE 31 ST SESSION OF THE ISLAMIC
CONFERENCE OF FOREIGN MINISTERS ENTITLED “SESSION
OF PROGRESS AND GLOBAL HARMONY” HELD IN ISTANBUL,
REPUBLIC OF TURKEY FROM 14-16 JUNE 2004
…
[Extract from] Address by Turkish President
...

52 IPRI Factfile
Referring to Jammu and Kashmir issue, Turkish President said it
continues to be a source of serious concern since 1947 as this issue has
inflicted sufferings to the people of the region and has been a source of
tension in the relations between Pakistan and India. We support the
settlement of this issue on the basis of international legitimacy and
dialogue, he observed and added that recent mutual openings made
between Pakistan and India and initiation of a dialogue process has risen
hopes for a settlement.
He noted that settlement of Jammu and Kashmir dispute will
contribute significantly to the strengthening of peace and stability in the
region. The President underlined the need for the establishment of peace,
security and stability in Afghanistan as it was not only important for
Afghan people but also for stability in the region. He also called for
concrete steps for the solution of Nagorno-Karabakh dispute and urged
OIC for close interest and support for the recognition of basic minority
rights of the Turkish Muslim minority in Western Thrace.
…
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXXI, issue VI-A (June 2004): 153-154.
VISIT OF PRIME MINISTER SHAUKAT AZIZ TO T URKEY
FROM 31 MAY 3 JUNE 2005
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz paid an official visit to Turkey from 31 May
- 3 June, 2005, on the invitation of the Turkish Prime Minister, Mr.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Begum
Rukhsana Aziz, Ministers for Information, Law, Commerce and
Communication as well as Ministers of State for Foreign Affairs, Defence
and Tourism. The delegation also included parliamentarians and a group
of businessmen. It was Mr. Shaukat Aziz's first visit to Turkey as Prime
Minister. Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan visited Pakistan in
June 2003.
During the visit, the Prime Minister held formal talks with his
Turkish counterpart and called on President Ahmet Necdet Sezer. He
also had a meeting with Speaker of the Grand National Assembly and
received the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. The Prime
Minister's talks with Turkish leaders focused on bilateral relations,
mainly trade and economic cooperation. An Agreement on Training
Cooperation between Interior Ministries, an Executive Protocol on

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 53
cooperation in the field of Science and Technology and a Protocol on
Agro-based Industries were signed during the visit.
The Prime Minister addressed top business personalities of Turkey
at a meeting of the Turkish Union of Chambers and Stock Exchanges. In
Istanbul, Mr. Shaukat Aziz will address members of the Foreign
Economic Relations Board. He also spoke at the Middle East Technical
University.
The Ministers accompanying the Prime Minister had separate
meetings with their Turkish counterparts. The Parliamentarians will be
visiting the Grand National Assembly to meet members of the Turkey-
Pakistan Parliamentary Group. It may be recalled that a Turkish
Parliamentary delegation visited Pakistan in March this year.
Pakistan and Turkey enjoy fraternal relations, rooted in common
faith, history and culture. Mutual goodwill and understanding between
the two peoples predate the creation of Pakistan. Bilateral relations have
grown steadily over the years, helped by shared interests and perceptions.
Both sides have a strong desire to add greater substance to bilateral
relations. The Prime Minister's visit helped bring the two brotherly
countries further closer to each other.
Bilateral Talks
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip
Erdogan on Wednesday expressed commonality of views on regional and
global issues, as Turkey called for the resolution of decades old Kashmir
dispute "as soon as possible."
The two prime ministers told reporters after formal talks that they
discussed the entire gambit of bilateral relations and regional and
international issues, including Kashmir, Afghanistan, Iran, Middle East
and the proposed UN reform as well as Cyprus.
"We believe that all approaches by Pakistan for peaceful resolution
of the Kashmir issue are very positive and we appreciate these
approaches,” the Turkish PM said. "Turkey fully supports Pakistan on
Kashmir. This problem should be tackled as soon as possible. There
should be no more bloodshed, no more loss of life.”
Prime Minister Aziz said Pakistan was holding a composite
dialogue with India to resolve all outstanding issues, including the issue of
Jammu and Kashmir in line with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
He also reiterated Pakistan's full support to Turkey on Northern Cyprus.
"Whatever steps Turkey has outlined on this issue, we have said that we

54 IPRI Factfile
will support them 100 percent," he said, hoping this would promote
peace and harmony in Cyprus.
The two prime ministers held one-on-one meeting for about 45
minutes before they headed their respective delegations at the formal
talks for a comprehensive discussion on bilateral, regional and
international issues. The Pakistani side included Information Minister
Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Commerce Minister Humayum Akhtar Khan,
communication Minister Shamim Siddiqui, Law Minister Wasi Zafar,
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Khusro Bakhtyar, Minister of State
for Defence Zahid Hamid and Foreign Secretary Riaz Ahmed.
The two prime ministers also witnessed signing of an
agreement on cooperation in the field of science and technology by the
law minister and Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul.
The two premiers also discussed the Organisation of Islamic
Conference (OIC), and agree on the need for reinvigorating and
repositioning the 57 member grouping so that its voice is understood and
heard all over the world.
The Turkish PM expressed dissatisfaction over the volume of trade
between the two countries, and said that they discussed steps to enhance
the same. Pakistan and Turkey have also agreed to increase air traffic to
four flights a week with a desire to take the number to seven, and also
initiating direct flights between Istanbul and Karachi. He appreciated
Pakistan support on the issue of Northern Cyprus, saying the two
countries move hand-in-hand on the problem.
Erdogan hoped the visit of Aziz would give a new boost to bilateral
ties. Responding to a question, he said, the two sides also discussed the
existing cooperation in the defence field and hoped for serious steps in
coming days to further enhance the cooperation.
Aziz called on Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer, and stressed
the need for removing misperception about Islam is the West. He called
for efforts to project the real image of the religion. Expressing concern
over the growing misperception, they said Islam is a religion of peace,
harmony, tolerance and amity, and called for projecting the religion in its
true spirit.
Banquet Speeches
While speaking at a banquet hosted in his honour by his Turkish
counterpart, Prime Minister Aziz called for enhanced trade and economic

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 55
relations between Pakistan and Turkey to match their strong relationship
in political and diplomatic fields. "Pakistan and Turkey are bound by
abiding ties of faith and culture, history and heritage," he said. "Ours is a
special relationship. It is marked by immense mutual goodwill,
convergence of perceptions and commonality of interests.”
In his address, the prime minister spoke on wide-ranging issues
including Pakistan India relations, the situation in Afghanistan, Iraq and
the proposed UN reform. He said Pakistan was committed to peace in
South Asia, and believed in the amicable settlement of the Kashmir
dispute in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people is at the
heart of the peace process. He called for showing courage and flexibility
by both sides to move forward. "We are ready to do our part. The
international community could also facilitate this process," he said.
Aziz said Pakistan supports the just and legitimate struggle of the
Turkish Cypriot people. "We believe the Annan Plan offered a unique
opportunity for unification."
The prime minister said Palestine remains a major challenge to the
international community, especially to the Muslim world. Pakistan, he
said, has consistently supported the Palestinian cause, and the people of
Palestine deserve and must have a homeland of their own. He said the
UN reform must be comprehensive and on the basis of consensus to
make the UN more democratic, accountable and efficient without
creating additional centres of privileges.
Address to Turkish Businessmen
Addressing a select gathering of Turkish businessmen, the prime minister
invited the Turkish entrepreneurs to focus on Pakistan, which provides a
unique opportunity to investors through its strategic location, growing
economy policy. The Turkish PM also attended the lunch hosted in the
honour of Aziz by the Turkish Union of Chambers and Stock
Exchanges.
Hoping for an early operationalisation of the Preferential Trade
Agreement signed in January last year to boost the trade. He said the two
counties have also agreed to expedite talks on tariff concessions that
would ensure Pakistan's textile goods export to Turkey and would also
enhance unhindered Turkish exports to Pakistan.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Turkey Abdullah
Gul called on Aziz and discussed with him bilateral relations and regional
and global issues including the proposed UN reform.

56 IPRI Factfile
Aziz met Speaker of Turkish Grand National Assembly Bulent
Arinc and discussed prospects of close cooperation between the
parliamentarians of the two countries. The two leaders also discussed
bilateral ties and expressed satisfaction over the efforts made to increase
trade and economic contacts between the two brotherly countries.
Aziz also visited the mausoleum of Kamal Ataturk to pay homage
to the founder of modern Turkey. He laid floral wreath at the grave and
observed one-minute silence as a mark of respect. Recording his
impression in the visitors' book, he said: "It is a privilege for me and the
entire Pakistan nation to pay tributes, homage and respect to Kamal
Ataturk, a great leader of Turkey and the world," he wrote.
Address at the Middle Technical University
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz Thursday said Pakistan adheres to a
doctrine of minimum nuclear deterrence as a guarantee of its security and
has a strong command and control system to protect the strategic assets.
“Pakistan's nuclear capability should be viewed in the context of
strategic co-relation of forces in South Asia. Pakistan does not threaten
any nor does it have ambitions for regional domination,” he said in his
address to the Middle East Technical University. Pakistan [is] promoting
regional peace and development in Asia.
The Prime Minister in his wide ranging speech explained Pakistan’s
position on major regional and international issues to the distinguished
audience of one of the most prestigious academic institution in the world.
In his comprehensive speech he covered the situation in South Asia,
Pakistan India peace dialogue, Afghanistan, Iraq, the Middle East crisis,
proposed UN reform, besides highlighting Pakistan’s role in promoting
regional peace and development.
Prime Minister Aziz said Pakistan's nuclear and missile capabilities
have been developed purely for self-defence and provide a credible
deterrence to ensure its security. The nuclear test by Pakistan, in response
to that of India in 1998, had proved to be a critical factor for the
establishment of security and stability in South Asia, he added.
The Prime Minister recalled the events of 2001-2002 when the
nuclear deterrence prevented the outbreak of hostilities at the time when
India had deployed more than a million troops on the country’s borders.
He said being a responsible nuclear power, Pakistan has proposed a
Strategic Restraint Regime that seeks to avoid a strategic and
conventional arms race with India.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 57
Prime Minister Aziz reiterated Pakistan’s opposition to nuclear
proliferation and said the country has developed a strong command and
control system to protect its strategic assets. “Moreover, we have engaged
with the international export control regime to ensure
non proliferation,” he added.
The Prime Minister, while highlighting Pakistan’s strategic
location, said the country sits at the crossroads of South, Central and west
Asia and provides shortest access to the sea for the landlocked Central
Asia through its ports. He also mentioned the upcoming projects which
were being considered constructing a gas pipeline from Iran and
Turkmenistan to Pakistan and may be beyond into India.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan’s role as a critical factor for
promoting such intra-regional. Cooperation is underscored by the fact
that it is the only country which is a member of both the Economic
cooperation Organization (ECO) of Central Asian states and the South
Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc). However, the prime
minister said to achieve this ambitious goal, enabling environment in the
region was a must.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz described dialogue for peaceful
settlement of existing disputes and mechanism to resolve issues on
bilateral and multilateral basis as one of the four pillars, that he
underlined to promote such an enabling environment.
He defined the other three pillars as strategic restraint and
avoidance of an arms race in the region, strengthening of regional
cooperation and enhancing cooperation between the different sub-regions
of Asia, which would enhance security and mutually beneficial
cooperation.
The Prime Minister also outlined various features of Pakistan's
burgeoning economy, which posted 8.3 percent growth rate in fiscal year
2004-05 and was among the five top Asian countries in terms of growth.
On South Asia and the ongoing peace dialogue with India, the
prime minister underlined the centrality of the Kashmir dispute whose
resolution, he added, was must for a durable peace in the region.
He said in its relations with India, Pakistan has persisted with its
commitment to peaceful resolution of all issues, especially the Kashmir
dispute. The prime minister said resolution of the longstanding dispute in
accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people “holds the key to
peace between Pakistan and India”.

58 IPRI Factfile
He called for showing sincerity courage and flexibility by all
achieve this objective. “We have already demonstrated commitment to
this approach and believe that the Kashmir solution must be acceptable to
all three parties, Pakistan, India and especially the Kashmiris,” he added.
Turning to other regional and international issues, the prime
minister traced the events in Afghanistan that adversely affected Pakistan
with the inflow of three million Afghan refugees, the infusion of drugs
and weapons, as well as incursions by extremists and terrorists.
Through out this period, he added Pakistan respected the
sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan and helped in efforts
to restore peace in that country. After the events of September 11, he
said, Pakistan fully supported the Bonn Process and the government of
President Hamid Karzai and acted as a reliable neighbor and trusted
partner.
On Iraq, the Prime Minister said, the recent elections in the Gulf
country holds out the possibility of a return to peace and normalcy in
that country. He reiterated Pakistan's position that fully supports the
sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq. The prime minister hoped
that the Iraqi people would be able to overcome the challenges before
them without external coercion or interference.
“We would also like to see a greater role by the United Nations in
Iraq to help in the political transition, restore peace and ensure
reconstruction of the country,” he added. The Prime Minister described
Palestinian problem a major threat to regional peace and security and said
a lasting and durable settlement in the Middle East could be achieved by
the attainment of a homeland by the Palestine people.
He said the Palestinian president recently visited Pakistan and the
government assured him full cooperation and support. “We believe that
international community, especially the major powers, must expend
every effort to help resolve this dispute which has caused immense
human suffering over the last several decades,” he added.
The Prime Minister termed the menace of global terrorism as a
danger to peace and development across the world. Reiterating Pakistan’s
firm resolve to fight out the menace, he said the country opposed
terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. He referred to the
significant contribution Pakistan has made to the war on terrorism,
saying its role is now internationally acknowledged.
However, at the same time, the prime minister said Pakistan
believed that a lasting solution to the problems of terrorism required

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 59
elimination of its root causes. "We need to remove the deprivation, the
injustice and the ignorance that germinate the phenomena of terrorism,"
he added.
The Prime Minister also called on the need to challenge the
pernicious notion that Islam breeds extremism and terrorism and that the
world was heading towards an inevitable clash of civilizations. "Islam
means peace; it is a religion of compassion ar1d tolerance which preaches
harmony and forbearance," he added.
Referring to the President General Pervez Musharraf's Vision of
enlightened moderation, he said it promotes an "inter civilizations
understanding". The vision, he added, exhorts Muslim societies to reform
and reject extremism and calls upon the West to facilitate resolution of
issues that have caused pain and anger among Muslims.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said Pakistan shares common bonds
of religion, culture and traditions and have deep and abiding relations
with Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Emirates. He also highlighted Pakistan's
relations with major world powers in pursuit of regional peace and
development including the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France,
Germany and Japan.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan was eager to promote its
economic and trade relations with Iran, which would receive a major
boost with the construction of the Iran-Pakistan India gas pipeline.
Later, Prime Minister Aziz entertained questions on Pakistan
Turkey relations and other regional and international issues.
Responding to a question about defence cooperation between
Pakistan and Turkey, he said both countries had unique capabilities and
they had agreed to discuss the possibility of sharing technologies and the
production of certain equipment. On Pakistan Turkey relations in other
fields, he said he had very good discussion with his Turkish counterpart.
They identified many areas where cooperation can be enhanced.
He said the two way relationship was multi-faceted and added, that
in three or four major areas, "we can enhance cooperation in trade,
investment and defence production”.
Asked to comment on the possibility of South Asian Union on the
pattern of European Union, the prime minister said thinking of such a
union was far-fetched. He observed that European Union was an
economic and political union and "we don't see such union in South Asia
at the moment".

60 IPRI Factfile
He explained that the regional countries have to resolve political
disputes and then they could go on making greater economic
cooperation.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said Kashmir is the central dispute
between Pakistan and India, and added that these fundamental issues have
to be resolved for having sustained economic relations.
To a question, the prime minister said that relationship between
Pakistan and Turkey was of strategic nature. There is a need for
interaction at the civil society level and also exchange of students in order
to deepen the already exiting fraternal ties.
Meeting with Turkish Businessmen
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz Friday said Pakistan and Turkey were
working on preferential tariff arrangements to give more incentives to
investors and boost the two way trade.
"Think of new paradigm you cannot survive with wall of high
tariff barriers around you, this is a thinking of yesterday," said the Prime
Minister at a breakfast meeting with the Foreign Relations Economic
Board of Turkey. He stressed that this was the age of increasing
productivity, competitiveness and low cost production.
The Prime Minister talked about bilateral relations between
Pakistan and Turkey, country's economic and structural reforms and
ways and means to increase two way trade and investment linkages. He
said with high growth rate, Pakistan's economy was entering a new stage
with foreign investors lining up to benefit form country's conducive
investment friendly climate.
"We started with the structural reforms six years ago under the
leadership of President General Pervez Musharraf with continuity and
consistency of polices being our major strength," he added.
The prudent economic policies, pursued with utmost
transparency, were providing results as the economy has registered 8.4
percent· growth this year, bringing the country among the top five
Asian countries in terms of growth.
The Prime Minister described deregulation, liberalization and
privatisation as three planks of government's economic strategy, which
put the country on the high growth trajectory.
"The exchange rate is stable, the debt profile has improved and
Pakistan has pre-paid expensive debt, and we are consistently tapping the

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 61
world capital market to establish our name,” the Prime Minister told
leading Turkish businessmen and industrialists.
Aziz said Pakistan has said goodbye to international
monetary fund [IMF] and was the first country to move from the
poverty growth reduction facilitation [PGRF] to the international
capital market.
He said Pakistan went to the international market early this
year to raise $500 million through Eurobond which were oversubscribed
three times, reflecting the growing confidence of the foreign investors.
“This has given confidence to investors and local players,” he added.
Outlining various incentives to the foreign investors, the Prime
Minister said almost all sectors of economy were open to foreign
investors with 100 percent ownership; there were no restriction on
remittances of profit. "We have ensured level-playing field to all
investors and make no distinction between the foreign and local
investors,” he added.
Shaukat Aziz said Pakistan was getting investment from many new
sources and cited the example of Singapore, Malaysian entrepreneurs and
Chinese companies which were coming in a big way.
He asked the Turkish investors to join in the swarm of foreign
investors and identified sectors like telecom, engineering, agro-based
industries, construction and tourism as some of the sectors which
registered fast-pace growth through the policy of deregulation.
He said starting from just one state owned Pakistan
Telecommunications Company limited (PTCL) the country now has six
operators in the cellular market. The subscribers base has rose to 10
million from 2.3 million a few years ago and may be doubled in the
coming few years, he added.
The Prime Minister particularly underlined the fact that licences
were awarded through an open bidding, ensuring maximum
transparency. “Transparency is the best way to go forward,” he added.
Similarly, he said the production of motorcycles rose to 500,000 this
year from 130,000 three years ago, showing the potential of this sector.
The Prime Minister said despite this economic growth, the
country still has to face many challenges that includes passing on the
benefits of growth to common man. He said the government was
targeting single digit inflation and added that the massive increase in the
oil prices coupled with demand and supply mismatch contributed to

62 IPRI Factfile
increase in inflation. He said the government was taking steps to control
inflation that focus on supply side.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan Turkey relations were rooted
deep in history and they share common heritage. He said the two
countries have very close relations in political, cultural and social fields
but their economic relations were below potential. He said during talks
with his Turkish counterpart, they agreed to enhance the level of
bilateral trade to $ one billion and it can even go higher.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan was still borrowing from the
World Bank and the bond market for the development projects. This
year’s development programme was worth $5 billion, with emphasis on
social sectors like health, education and infrastructure. In the power
sector, the prime minister said we are entering a new phase in which the
private sector would generate power for its own requirements.
Shaukat Aziz said Pakistan was also facing challenges and one of
these was how to sustain the growth rate. This year, he said, the growth
rate was 8.4% and the target for the next year was being fixed at 7%.
Onboard Briefing
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz Friday described his visit to Turkey as
very productive and said it would further enhance the excellent
relations between the two countries in all areas including trade,
economy and defence.
“We had wide-ranging and productive talks with the Turkish
leadership and the two sides had identity of views on all major regional
and international issues” he told reporters flying with him back home
after a three day visit to Turkey. The prime minister expressed the hope
that his discussions with the Turkish leadership and interaction with the
private sector will lead to a higher level Turkish investment in Pakistan
besides improving two way trade.
Shaukat Aziz said the two sides talked about increasing cooperation
in were deep rooted in history and the two countries share com heritage.
The prime minister said he held talks with the Turkish leaders about
more cooperation in the field of economy, trade, politics and defence.
Referring to his talks with President Ahmet Necdet Sezer and
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Shaukat Aziz said the two
countries have commonality of views on all issues including the
proposed UN reform.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 63
He lauded Turkey’s unequivocal and consistent support on the
issue of Kashmir. The Turkish president after formal talks with Prime
Minister Aziz called for an early resolution of the Kashmir dispute In line
with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan also fully supports Turkey
on t issue of Cyprus. Shaukat Aziz, who also held extensive interaction
with the Turkish private sector, hoped that it will lead to an increase flow
of investment from Turkey to Pakistan and boost the two-way trade
which currently stands at only $ 400 million. Leadership of the two
countries identified to take the two way trade volume to $ one billion
and beyond.
The Prime Minister said the he also discussed challenges facing
the OIC and Muslim Ummah and what the two countries could together
to project the true image of Islam. Mr. Shaukat Aziz said the Turkish
president will be visiting Pakistan next week which would provide an
opportunity to take the process of close interaction on major issues
forward.
On his arrival at the Chaklala air base, the prime minister was
received by Federal Minister Babar Ghouri and other high officials was
accompanied by Minister for Information and Broadcasting Sheikh
Rashid Ahmed, Minister for Commerce Hamayun Akhtar Khan,
Minister for Law and Justice Wasi Zafar, Minister for communications
Shamim Siddiqui, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Khusro Bakhtyar,
Minister of State for Defence Zahid Hamid, member of parliament and
businessmen.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXXII, issue VI (June 2005): 191-205.
RELATIONS WITH T URKEY
Friendship between the peoples of Turkey and South Asia goes back into
history. The Khilafat movement, the medical mission to Turkey during
World War I and the financial support to Turkey’s war of independence
are part of history. But, regrettably, the sentiments of love and friendship
between the two peoples do not seem to find expression in concrete
terms. The volume of trade between Pakistan and Turkey is low — less
than half a billion dollars — and Turkish investment in this country is
negligible. Similarly, all the talk of cultural relationship notwithstanding,
there is very little to show by way of achievement. As for the economic
relationship, Turkish businessmen have often complained that their visits

64 IPRI Factfile
to Pakistan produce no results. The bureaucracy moves slowly, and they
have to cross many barriers before an agreement is signed. Turkish
companies involved in motorway construction have bitter memories of
having been dragged to courts mainly because of Pakistan’s internal
politics. In sharp contrast, they point out that on a single day’s visit to
Frankfurt they can sign transactions worth millions of dollars. Pakistan
will thus have to rectify this aspect of our decision-making apparatus if
the aims spelled out on Wednesday by Prime Minister’s Shaukat Aziz and
Recep Tayyip Erdogan are to be realized.
Among areas where the two countries want to increase cooperation
is defence production. Addressing a joint press conference with Mr Aziz,
Mr Erdogan spoke of “the many steps” the two sides will take in defence
cooperation but did not elaborate. Agency reports, however, spoke of
possible cooperation in the joint production of tanks, armoured
personnel carriers and patrol boats. Pakistan, like Turkey, has to
maintain a huge defence establishment, but its arsenal is mostly American
and Chinese. Of late, it has made considerable efforts to diversify its
sources of arms purchases, and there has also been a commendable effort
towards the indigenous production of vital defence equipment. In
cooperation with China, Pakistan is producing a fighter-bomber which
will shortly go into serial production, while the navy has acquired
modern submarine technology from France. Pakistan is already
producing al-Khalid and al- Jarrar tanks and is exporting them. Turkey
too has reached a certain level of technological proficiency and among
other items manufactures F-16s at Ankara’s Akinci facility. Against this
background, cooperation with Turkey for the production of tanks, APCs
and patrol boats should help promote self-reliance in both countries in
defence production.
In another area where Pakistan can learn from Turkey is the
peaceful nature of its political environment. Mr Erdogan’s Justice and
Development Party (AKP), now in absolute majority in the majlis, has
given Turkey peace, stability and economic growth that is fastest in
Europe. Its exports total $60 billion, and it plans to take it to $94 billion.
The AKP has an Islamic orientation, but it has shun extremism and
shown an extraordinary example of tolerance towards religious and
political dissent. More important, under Mr Erdogan, the military’s role
in politics has virtually ended. Generals no more dominate the National
Security Council, which has been stripped of its dominating role and is
now only an advisory body. Turkey has also given, perhaps under

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 65
European pressure, full cultural rights to the Kurdish minority, abolished
the death penalty and undertaken many other political and legal reforms.
Like Malaysia, Turkey is an example for Pakistan to follow for managing
its internal affairs sensibly, without providing a handle for divisiveness to
obstruct national progress through extremism and violence.
Editorial, Dawn (Islamabad), June 3, 2005,
http://www.dawn.com/2005/06/03/ed.htm
A REPORT ON A CALL ON PRIME MINISTER SHAUKAT AZIZ
BY THE VISITING PRESIDENT OF T URKISH REPUBLIC OF
NORTHERN CYPRUS (TRNC) MEHMET ALI T ALAT:
ISLAMABAD, 5 SEPTEMBER 2006
The sense of injustice, feeling of deprivation and absence of level playing
field are among the root causes of terrorism, which should be addressed
by the international community. This was stated by Prime Minister
Shaukat Aziz while talking to the Presidents of TRNC, who called on
him at the Prime Minister House here Tuesday evening.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said Pakistan has historically
supported the cause of Turkish Cyprus and will continue to do so in
future. Shaukat Aziz said Pakistan and TRNC relations are rooted in
history, culture and faith. The visiting President thanked the Prime
Minister for the support provided by Pakistan to the cause of Turkish
Cyprus.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for more unity among
Muslim countries to face the challenges facing the Ummah. He said Islam
is a religion of peace, brotherhood and compassion. Muslim countries
need to work harder to present Islam in its true light and to dispel the
need misperception sometime created about it.
Terming terrorism a serious threat to progress and prosperity of the
world, Shaukat Aziz said Pakistan abhors terrorism in all its forms and
manifestations. Pakistan along with international community, he said, is
engaged in fighting this menace and will continue playing its role.
However, in order to root out terrorism, it is essential to address its
basic causes and the international community needs to play a more
affective role in this respect, he added. The Prime Minister said the sense
of injustice, feeling of deprivation and absence of level playing field all
among the root causes of terrorism, which should be addressed by the

66 IPRI Factfile
international community. Referring to regional situation, the Prime
Minister said the unique geo-strategic location enjoyed by Pakistan poses
many challenges and opportunities.
Pakistan does not harbour aggressive designs against any country.
However, peace is achieved through a position of strength. Our defence
policy aims at maintaining minimum credible deterrence to safeguard our
territorial integrity, stability, and progress, he said.
He said Pakistan is acting as an anchor of peace to leverage the true
potential of the region.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXXIII, issue IX (September 2006): 347-348.
VISIT BY PRIME MINISTER SHAUKAT AZIZ TO NORWAY, UK,
T URKEY AND L EBANON FROM 1-5 SEPTEMBER 2006
…
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz arrived in Istanbul Sunday on the third leg
of his four-nation tour.
He was received by Mayor of Istanbul Kadir Kopbash, Governor
Istanbul Muammer Guler, Pakistan's Ambassador to Turkey Lt. Gen.
(Retd) Iftikhar Hussain Shah and other Officials of the Pakistan Embassy.
A Pakistani child presented him a bouquet on arrival.
The Prime Minister attended the Internatiolna1Youth Forum being
held here by the OIC for dialogue and cooperation among youth of the
Islamic countries. He also met Prime Minister of Turkey Recep Tayyip
Erdogan.
He delivered a keynote address at the Forum he attended invitation
of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXXIII, issue IX, (September 2006): 333-334.
VISIT OF PRESIDENT G ENERAL PERVEZ MUSHARRAF TO THE
REPUBLIC OF POLAND, THE KINGDOM OF SPAIN, THE
REPUBLIC OF BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA AND T URKEY FROM
29-30 APRIL 2007
…
General Pervez Musharraf, the President of the Islamic Republic of
Pakistan visited Ankara on 29-30 April 2007 at the invitation of His
Excellency Ahmet Necedet Sezer, the President of the Republic of

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 67
Turkey. The President of Turkey had also invited his Afghan
counterpart.
President General Pervez Musharraf and President Hamid Karzai
held comprehensive, cordial and useful talks, together with President
Ahrnet Necedet Sezer and Prime Minister Recep Tayyib Erdogan, on
regional and international issues. They emphasized that the international
community must work together to promote the objectives of Afghanistan
Compact. They pledged to cooperate towards promoting peace, security,
stability and economic development in the region.
During the talks, the Presidents of Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed
to continue to have dialogue and cooperation in all dimensions between
the two brotherly countries and to combine their efforts to enhance
prosperity of their peoples.
The following declaration was released on the occasion with regard
to the talks.
The Ankara Declaration
His Excellency General Pervez Musharraf, the President of the Islamic
Republic of Pakistan, and His Excellency Hamid Karzai, the President of
the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, visited Ankara on 29-30 April 2007
at the invitation of His Excellency Ahmet Necdet Sezer, the President of
the Republic of Turkey.
President General Pervez Musharraf and President Hamid Karzai
held comprehensive, cordial and useful talks, together with President
Ahmet Necdet Sezer and Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on
regional and international issues. They emphasized that the international
community must work together to promote the objectives of Afghanistan
Compact. They pledged to cooperate towards promoting peace, security,
stability and economic development in the region.
During the talks, the Presidents of Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed
to continue to have dialogue and cooperation in all dimensions between
the two brotherly countries and to combine their efforts to enhance
prosperity of their peoples.
The two Presidents:
Agreed that their historical ties serve as a common basis to address all
challenges hampering the stability, security and the development of their
region and to enhance their cooperation, building upon the “Joint Press
Statement” of 07 September 2006 issued during President Musharraf's
visit to Kabul.

68 IPRI Factfile
Agreed to further strengthen bilateral relations on the basis of good
neighbourliness, respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in
each other's internal affairs. Acknowledging the great opportunity that
exists for progress and economic development in the region, they pledged
to work together to improve and strengthen the climate of trust and
cooperation.
Agreed that extremism and terrorism are a common threat to both
Afghanistan and Pakistan, as it is a danger to the region. They reiterated
their commitment to continue supporting moderation, fighting all forms
of extremism and terrorism through coordinated action. They expressed
concern at the alarming increase in poppy cultivation in Afghanistan and
underlined the connection between terrorism, drug trafficking and
organized crime in the region, and emphasized the need for concerted
efforts to combat these menaces.
Agreed to deny sanctuary, training and financing to terrorists and
to elements involved in subversive and anti-state activities in each other's
country and to initiate immediate action on specific intelligence
exchanges in this regard.
Reaffirmed their commitment to enhance goodwill and create
further confidence building measures and mechanisms, including through
interaction between political representatives, civil society, academicians,
media, and sports and cultural links.
Resolved to work jointly for facilitating orderly repatriation of
Afghan refugees from Pakistan.
With a view to monitoring progress on the above agreed matters
and coordinating the confidence-building measures and mechanisms, the
Presidents established a "Joint Working Group (JWG)" with the
participation of high level representatives of the three countries.
President Karzai expressed the gratitude of the people of
Afghanistan to the people of Pakistan for continuing to host millions of
Afghan refugees. He also appreciated Pakistan's offer to host the next
meeting of Regional Economic Cooperation Conference on Afghanistan
(RECCA).
The Presidents of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan commended the initiative of Turkey for
hosting the summit meeting and appreciated the offer to organize further
meetings towards the end of 2007 or early 2008.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, vol. XXXIV, issue IV (April 2007): 206-209.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 69
PAKISTAN - TURKEY JOINT STATEMENT, ANKARA,
O CTOBER 27-31, 2008
1. The Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Syed Yousuf
Raza Gilani paid an official visit to the Republic of Turkey from 27-31
October, 2008. Mrs. Gilani and a high ranking entourage accompanied
the Prime Minister of Pakistan.
2. In Ankara, Prime Minister Mr. Gilani, held talks with the Prime
Minister of Turkey His Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and called on
President of Turkey, His Excellency Abdullah Gül and the Speaker of the
Turkish Grand National Assembly, His Excellency Köksal Toptan.
Prime Minister of Pakistan was the Chief Guest at the National Day
Celebrations of the Republic of Turkey. The Prime Minister of Pakistan
also attended the World Economic Forum meeting in Istanbul.
3. Pakistan and Turkey enjoy special relations which are characterized by
unique bonds of close affinity, mutual respect and solidarity and are deeprooted
in the hearts of the peoples. Both sides attach highest importance
to the friendship between their peoples and their mutually beneficial
partnership.
4. In their talks, which were characterized by great warmth, leaders of the
two countries expressed their determination to comprehensively upgrade
their strategic cooperative partnership, which is in the fundamental
interests of their peoples and is an important factor in promoting regional
peace, stability and prosperity.
5. The two sides decided to institute regular strategic dialogue and further
intensify the process of coordination, consultation and cooperation on
regional and global issues.
6. It was decided to establish comprehensive frameworks to promote
economic and trade; defence; scientific and technological; and cultural
cooperation. Both sides agreed that project cooperation in all sectors
holds immense potential and will be invigorated by enabling their
respective corporate sectors to collaborate effectively.
7. They agreed to take up important development projects in
infrastructure, minerals, agriculture, manufacturing and energy sectors.
Public and private sectors corporations of Pakistan and Turkey will also
jointly undertake regional and trans-regional cooperation.
8. It was also decided to enhance connectivity by establishing
transportation and communication links, including additional air links.

70 IPRI Factfile
Given the special geo-economic and geo-political significance of both
Pakistan and Turkey, special attention will be given to road and rail links.
9. Both countries are determined to increase their cooperation bilaterally
as well as multilaterally to promote regional peace, development and
prosperity.
10. Pakistan expressed appreciation for the important role played by
Turkey in promoting peace in Afghanistan. In this context, it was agreed
to further pursue the Ankara Tripartite Summit process, which will
especially focus on development dimension.
11. Pakistan also expressed full support for the realization of the
aspirations of the Turkish Cypriot people.
12. Turkey expressed full solidarity and support for Pakistan's
sovereignty, political independence and territorial territory. Turkey also
expressed support for the efforts of Pakistan to combat the menace of
terrorism and extremism. Both sides decided to increase their cooperation
in security and counter terrorism.
13. At the cultural plane, it was decided to institute regular youth
exchanges, linkup universities and think tanks, film, television and media,
joint productions and cooperation.
14. It was decided to declare the ancients cities of Multan and Konya as
sister cities. The precious cultural heritage of the two sister cities is a
cherished treasure and both cities will jointly promote multidimensional
cooperation highlighting in particular their great spiritual significance.
15. It was also decided to promote tourism between the two countries as
well as develop special joint tourism products and packages.
16. The Parliaments of the two countries will develop regular exchanges.
With a view to facilitating this process, following the formation of the
Turkish side, the Pakistani side of the Parliamentary Friendship Group
will be established in the earliest time frame.
17. The Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan accepted the
invitation of the Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani to visit
Pakistan.
Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs, October 31, 2008,
http://www.mfa.gov.tr/pakistan---turkey-joint-statement_-ankara_-october-27-
31_-2008.en.mfa

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 71
CONCERNED T URKISH DEPUTY CALLS FOR ACTIVE
ENGAGEMENT IN PAKISTAN
Alarmed by the advance of Pakistani Taliban forces creeping closer to the
capital of Islamabad and the prospect of chaos and instability in the
country, a ranking member of the Turkish Parliament has voiced his
concerns and called for Turkish government officials to intervene and
broker a deal.
In an exclusive interview with Today's Zaman, Burhan Kayaturk,
the chairman of the Turkish-Pakistani Friendship Association, the largest
caucus in the Turkish assembly with 377 members, has said the instability
in Pakistan would have a domino effect in the region and would likely
spill over to neighboring countries, starting with India. Kayaturk also
expressed his frustration that his attempt to organize a delegation mission
to Pakistan had been unsuccessful. The request was denied by the
Pakistanis, who said they cannot guarantee security and safety of Turkish
deputies under the current conditions -- a grim appraisal of the situation
Kayaturk says he understands.
Having received his bachelor's degree from Lahore Technical
University, majoring in electronics, and master’s in business management
from the American International University, and having worked in the
region for some time in the past, Kayaturk has a wealth of knowledge and
first-hand experience in the region. He knows many prominent people on
a first-name basis. He is deeply concerned and closely watches
developments in Pakistan, placing frequent calls to his Pakistani friends in
Turkey and abroad, including the ambassadors, to try to get a reading of
recent events.
"I'm simply in deep shock," uttered Kayaturk in his office in
Ankara. Apparently, he had not anticipated the advance of Taliban forces
so close to the country's capital. Kayaturk stated, however, that the
military in Pakistan would never yield to Taliban forces and their nuclear
arms are in secure hands. "What we have seen so far is that the Pakistani
army had not really challenged the Taliban in the hope that negotiations
could prevent unnecessary bloodshed," he said, adding that the
prevention of the loss of civilian lives was an important factor. "When
push comes to shove, however, they will react very strongly," he stressed.
At the time this story went to press, Pakistani Taliban commander,
Maulana Fazlullah, had announced the withdrawal of his fighters from
Buner, a key northwestern valley just 60 miles from Islamabad. The

72 IPRI Factfile
government had previously agreed to the transfer of control of the Swat
Valley and caved in to the militants' demands for the imposition of
Islamic law there. "The sentiment for accepting Islamic rules and
regulations was already strong in Pakistan. But the radical interpretation
of these rules is a newly developed phenomenon in the country," he
argued.
In a move to allay mounting concern at home and abroad, Pakistani
security forces launched an offensive last week to expel militants from
Buner and another district. A Taliban spokesman in Swat said elements in
the military and the government were trying to sabotage the peace
process to please the United States. "They have no respect for any pact,"
the spokesman, Muslim Khan, told Reuters. "They keep violating every
agreement and if this goes on, there will definitely be no deal, no
ceasefire."
Military Solution not Enough
Although there are about 3 million Afghan refugees living in Pakistani
territory, the Taliban advance in the region has been achieved through
local Pakistani brand militias, Kayaturk says. "They instill fear among the
local people and that is how they are able to establish a stronghold in the
northwestern region," he added. The Turkish deputy also believes the
military solution alone is not enough to curb the influence of the Taliban
in both Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Kayaturk, who also heads the non-profit Turkey-Pakistan
Friendship and Culture Foundation, dismissed rising concerns that
Turkish citizens living in Pakistan are facing imminent danger. "The
Pakistanis have the utmost respect for Turkey and Turkish people," he
said, adding that the friendship between the two countries goes back to
Ottoman times, before the Turkish Republic was established.
He cautioned, however, that the Turkish companies doing business
in Pakistan may face hardship in collecting their payments due to
worsening economic conditions in the country. At the Tokyo Donors'
Conference on April 17, Pakistan secured more than $5 billion in aid
over a two-year period. It had already signed up a deal in November
amounting to a $7.6 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund
(IMF). The deal helped the country avert a balance of payments crisis.
Yet many claim Pakistan, with a population of 160 million, needs
more financial aid than already pledged to stabilize the economy and fight
against rising militant insurgency. Pakistan would like to see the

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 73
implementation of projects worth $30 billion over the next 10 years,
including many infrastructure projects in regions close to the Afghan
border. Represented at the Tokyo conference by State Minister Mehmet
Aydın, Turkey has pledged $100 million to be used in infrastructure,
health and education investments.
The Turkish deputy also calls for Pakistan's neighbors to help
boost security in the country rather than sitting idly on the sidelines and
watching the country become further embroiled in chaos. "It is in their
interests to see a stable Pakistan; otherwise, violence will spill over into
their territory," he underlined. Kayaturk advised that both India and
Pakistan's ambassadors in Ankara work hard towards confidence-building
measures.
Turkey Plays Key Role
Recalling the meeting that Turkey brokered with Pakistani and Afghan
leaders on April 1, when all three countries promised increased
coordination among their political, military and intelligence tiers to
jointly fight militancy and terrorism and achieve greater economic
cooperation to bring peace and stability to the region, Kayaturk said, "It
is the first time that the military and intelligence chiefs of Afghanistan
and Pakistan have attended the trilateral summit, which is a reflection of
the deeper commitment to work together."
The deputy makes the point that issues surrounding both
Afghanistan and Pakistan should be considered together, as both
countries have a common interest in dealing with security concerns on
either side of the border. "They need to engage in a comprehensive
dialogue at all levels," he said, "including military cooperation in counterterrorism
and counter- narcotics."
Kayaturk also underlined the significance of the region being
located at the crossroads of transport routes from east to west. "Cargo
traffic, energy projects and transport corridors are important sources for
the potential development of the region." He also asked for the
establishment of organized industrial zones in Afghanistan and Pakistan
with the help of the Turkish government and urged it to undertake
socioeconomic projects on education, health and vocational training.
"With education, you create opportunities for the young generation," he
noted, indicating that this will eventually stem the flow of recruits to
radical groups.

74 IPRI Factfile
According to the parliamentarian, Turks have the goodwill of the
Afghan people. It is the only country that is not seen as an occupier by
the Muslim population. "They like Turkish soldiers serving there under
the NATO command structure," he stressed. "I think Turkey can help
win the hearts and minds of the Afghan people and steer them away from
militancy by strengthening the infrastructure in education, health and
industry.”
Kayaturk does not shy away from laying the blame on the failed
leadership in Pakistan. "If they had not been mired in a variety of public
corruption scandals, they could have led the country in a stronger way,"
he said. "Unfortunately, many leaders from both parties were seen as
corrupt in the view of Pakistanis and that added fuel to the extremists'
propaganda machine." He is still hopeful, though, in that the new
leadership has the backing of the international community and has
secured the support of opposition leader Nawaz Sharif, who said he
would support the government in its struggle to fight militancy and
revive the economy. Political tension in the country eased after the
government gave in to opposition demands to reinstate a controversial
Supreme Court chief.
Kayaturk, from the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK
Party), said he would like to have another shot at leading a delegation of
deputies as soon as the situation calms down in Pakistan. "We are ready
to do whatever we can to help support Pakistan in its endeavor to achieve
a stable and vibrant country," he said.
Todays Zaman, May 6, 2009,
http://www.todayszaman.com/tz-web/detaylar.do?load=detay&link=174437
PM LAUNCHES T RIAL PHASE OF PAK-TURKEY
T RAIN SERVICE
The Islamabad-Istanbul Container Train Service would lead to
Integration of Pakistan’s Railway Tracks into the Region’s Network and
Opening up of a Trade Corridor between Europe on the One Hand and
South and Central Asia on the other, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani
said at the Launch of Project’s Trial Phase Here on Friday.
The first train would cover 6,500 kilometres via Tehran in two weeks,
carrying 20 containers — 14 for Iran and six for Turkey.
Mr Gilani recalled that the transit trade framework agreement
signed on March 15 this year in Islamabad by ECO member states called

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 75
for improving transit traffic to foster efficient movement of goods and
passengers.
He said that under the project Pakistan Railways would be
rehabilitating the main railway line, including the Quetta-Taftan section,
adding that a feasibility study had already been completed.
‘Up gradation would require … $500 million for the train to run at
a speed of 140km per hour for optimum operational efficiency,’ he said,
adding that rehabilitation of the network in Pakistan required
international financial support.
Minister for Railways Ghulam Ahmed Bilour said that government
officials and chambers of commerce needed to cooperate in order to
create an enabling environment for increasing regional trade.
He said that once the trial phase of the container service ended
successfully, a passenger service would be launched in an effort to boost
tourism in the region.
The prime minister also held a meeting with Mohammad Yahya
Maroofi, the secretary-general of ECO, at the PM House.
Dawn (Islamabad), August 15, 2009,
http://www.dawn.com/wps/wcm/connect/dawn-contentlibrary/dawn/news/pakistan/13+gilani+launches+trial+phase+of+islamabadistanbul+train+service-za-06
T URKEY’S MİLGEM TO BUILD MILITARY SHIPS FOR
PAKISTAN
The MİLGEM project, carried out jointly by Turkey’s Under Secretariat
for the Defense Industry (SSM) and the Turkish Naval Forces, is a
landmark project that developed the country’s first corvette-class
warship.
The STM defense company is working on the MİLGEM project.
Speaking to Turkish journalists yesterday in Karachi, which is currently
hosting the fifth International Defense Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS)
2008, Savaş Onur, a retired admiral who is currently the MİLGEM project
manager, said the fair has been a very good opportunity for Turkish
defense companies to promote their projects. “We also display MİLGEM
here, which is one of the most important projects Turkey has produced
in the past few years.”
Onur said the project was of a scale that would have a long-term
impact on the Turkish shipbuilding and defense industries. “Pakistan

76 IPRI Factfile
needs more ships like this. We are planning to carry out a joint project
with Pakistan for these corvettes.”
Onur said that more than 50 Turkish firms -- including the largest
defense firms, Aselsan, Havelsan and STM -- have played a role in the
MİLGEM project, gaining invaluable experience in warship building.
He said the three defense firms have merged forces to supply
Pakistan’s demand for corvette ships. “This is a four ship corvette
project. The first ship will be designed and built in Turkey, while the
three others will be built in Pakistan’s military shipyards. This is really a
comprehensive project. It is expected to last 10 years,” he said.
He noted that Turkey has had talks with Pakistan about this
project for nearly two years. “We can say that we are reaching an
agreement. I think we will realize the project successfully. The Turkish
defense industry has the capacity to manage such projects.”
Pakistan Defence, September 21, 2009,
http://www.defence.pk/forums/land-forces/27996-pak-turk-relations-defence-
2.html
ISLAMABAD-ISTANBUL LINKS: $20 BN RAIL
UPGRADE PROJECT
Pakistan and Turkey agreed Monday to undertake a US $ 20 billion
project to upgrade a railway link from Islamabad to Istanbul, basically to
speedily transport cargo from Pakistan to Turkey and ultimately to

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 77
Europe. This was decided in a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari
and his Turkish counterpart Abdullah Gul. The meeting continued for
one hour as President Abdullah Gul said that three companies of his
country were interested in constructing Bhasha-Diamer Dam in Pakistan.
President Zardari is only a four-day visit of Turkey to attend
Trilateral Summit as well as Istanbul Summit on Afghan issue besides
discussing bilateral matters with Turkish leaders.
The five-year rail project envisages to curtain I travel time between
Islamabad and Istanbul, via Tehran, from the current 11 days to
ultimately three-four days as a track between the two cities already
existed but facilities available required up gradation.
Emphasising that Pakistan and Turkey needed to intensify
cooperation in various fields, with focus on economic ties, President
Zardari said that Rail link of Pakistan with Turkey, via Tehran, would
play a crucial role to achieve these objectives.
Transportation of cargo by Air has become expensive while sea
trade is normally slow, President Zardari said. So the cargo rail link could
provide a speedier option to expand economic ties between the two
countries as well as with Iran.
A comprehensive presentation was given to the Pakistani and
Turkish Presidents on the 6,566 kilometres Rail project from Islamabad
to Istanbul, via Tehran, with 1,990 kilometres track situated in Pakistan,
2,570 kilometres in Iran and 2,006 kilometres in Turkey.
This rail link will strengthen Pakistan’s economic as well as people
to people ties with not only brotherly Muslim countries but also onwards
to Europe, remarked President Zardari who floated the Islamabad-
Istanbul cargo train idea last year when an experimental train was run on
the route on August 14.
He also stressed that the areas around the rail track should also be
developed so that benefits of increased trade could be passed on to
respective people. Zardari impressed upon business community of
Turkey to not only enhance trade relations with Pakistan but also to take
advantage of lucrative investment opportunities in his country.
I paid my first foreign visit to Turkey as PPP Co-Chairman after
the martyrdom of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the President said. It
reflects the importance the democratic government of Pakistan attaches
to relations with Turkey.

78 IPRI Factfile
Turkish President Abdullah Gul said that besides constructing
Diamar-Bhasha Dam through its private sector, Turkey also planned to
open branch of a Turkish bank in Pakistan, probably in Islamabad.
Gul invited Zardari to a state visit of Turkey, which the latter
accepted with visit to take place at a mutually convenient date.
An Urdu-Turkish and Turkish-Urdu dictionary, compiled by an
Ankara-based Pakistani, Dr. Furqan Hameed, was also presented to the
two Heads of State.
Pak, Turkey Agree: On $ 20Bn Islamabad-Istanbul Rail Link
Upgrade Project
By Tabinda al-Ghazala Pakistan Times Foreign Correspondent.
January 25, 2010,
http://rupeenews.com/2010/01/25/islamabad-istanbul-links-20-bln-rail-upgradeproject/
PEACE ENJOYED BY PAKISTAN IS PEACE OF T URKEY AND
UNEASE OF PAKISTAN IS UNEASE OF T URKEY:
T URKISH PM ERDOGAN
President Asif Ali Zardari urged the international community on Sunday
to help Pakistan and Afghanistan overcome problems of the region,
observing that Turkish-inspired Trilateral Summit could serve as useful
model in this behalf. The President stated this during a meeting with
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan who promised that his
country would soon deliver spare parts of Cobra helicopters to Pakistan
free of cost, underlining the growing cooperation between the two
countries in different fields.
Pakistan today is facing different challenges arising from the
conflict in the region and it is incumbent upon the international
community to step forward and help both the countries in tackling these
challenges, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Malik Ammad Khan,
quoted the President as saying in a briefing to reporters after the meeting.
The challenges we face in Pakistan today are of international, albeit
world, magnitude and we need regional as well as international support to
tackle these challenges, Minister of State, who was part of the delegation,
quoted the President as saying.
Zardari said the conflict in Afghanistan had spreaded the menaces
of terrorism, drugs etc. across its borders and countries of the region

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 79
required active cooperation from all the friendly nations and states of the
Western world to root out these problems.
In this behalf, he emphasized that Pakistan at this stage needed
trade, and not aid, from the concerned countries to come out of its
present difficulties. “For this purpose, we introduced the concept of
Friends Of Democratic Pakistan (FODP) so that more access could be
obtained for Pakistan to international markets.”
He said he was visiting Turkey for the fourth time in the last 18
months because the two countries enjoyed close relations and he wanted
to further consolidate these ties as the head of a democratic state.
Welcoming the Trilateral Summit, being held on Monday among
Pakistan, Afghanistan and Turkey, President Zardari remarked that it
gave the opportunity to his country to draw attention of the world to
our case and to send a strong message to the people of the world that we
want to curb terrorism but to do that we need to empower ourselves by
getting access to global markets.
He said the proposed Islamabad-Istanbul-Tehran rail project would
also greatly facilitate expansion in trade volume not only between the
two countries but also among other countries of the region. He sought
public-private partnership for this project.
He lauded support of Turkey to Pakistan on Kashmir issue,
contribution in providing succour to the effectees of 2005 earthquake and
its offer to build a football stadium in Muzaffarabad.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Erdogan promised that Turkey
would soon deliver – free of cost – spare parts to Pakistan under the
agreement already signed.
Defence Minister Ch. Ahmed Mukhtar, Minister of State for
Foreign Affairs Malik Ammad Khan, Railways Minister Ghulam Ahmed
Bilour, Secretary Foreign Affairs and Secretary Railways were members
of President delegation.
The Turkish PM said business communities of the two countries
should also get together in commerce and trade activities.
During the meeting, the two sides pledged to soon introduce visafree
travel between the two countries while Defence Minister Ahmed
Mukhtar informed the Turkish PM that Pakistan was looking into
possibility of more Turkish Airlines flights to Islamabad and other cities.
Erdogan said the Turkish Deputy PM would attend the coming
FODP conference in Dubai.

80 IPRI Factfile
Peace enjoyed by Pakistan is peace of Turkey and unease of
Pakistan is unease of Turkey, he said. We need joint international struggle
against terrorism and hence fourth trilateral summit is being hosted here
to take positive steps against the threat of terrorism and the entire
Turkish will do anything to curb terrorism.
Turkish President Abdullah Gul hosted a dinner in honor of
President Zardari and Afghan President Karzai at the historic Sait Halim
Pasa Palace. Turkey to provide Cobra spares to Pakistan Pakistan Times
Special Correspondent
January, 25, 2010,
http://rupeenews.com/2010/01/25/peace-enjoyed-by-pakistan-is-peace-ofturkey-and-unease-of-pakistan-is-unease-of-turkey-turkish-pm-erdogan/
G RAND WELCOME AWAITS T URKISH PRESIDENT ABDULLAH
G UL IN ISLAMABAD: UZUN YAŞAMAK T ÜRKIYE VE UZUN
YAŞAMAK PAKISTAN!
Turkey has been a real friend of Pakistan. Military and economic
cooperation is just the tip of the iceberg. Turkey is helping Pakistan
diplomatically and in Islamabad’s hour of need. Turkey was the biggest
donor during the Kashmir earthquake, and Turkey has not left the area.
It continues to help. Children all over Turkey gather gifts and money for
their Pakistani brothers and sisters sending more than $500 million to
Pakistani earthquake victims. Turkey is now building an Islamabad to
Istanbul train line worth $20 billion Dollars. This will reduce the time
from Islamabad to Istanbul from 14 to 3 days, facilitating trade,
commerce, and tourism. Turkey has also assisted Pakistan and
Afghanistan [to] improve their relations.
A grand welcome awaits President Gul.
…
Turkey will continue to support Pakistan, as the friendship between the
two countries is historic, Turkish President Abdullah Gul said on
Wednesday.
He said this while meeting National Assembly (NA) Speaker Dr
Fehmida Mirza in Ankara. Matters of mutual interest between the two
countries and ways to strengthen the bilateral relations were discussed in
the meeting. Gul said the Turkish people could never forget the sacrifices
of Muslims of the sub-continent during the Turkish independence war
and termed Mirza a ‘role model of the Muslim world.’

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 81
The Turkish president said he was looking forward to his
forthcoming visit to Pakistan and would bring along a delegation of
Turkish businessmen and investors, so that the economic relations
between the two countries could be strengthened. Gul paid rich tributes
to Benazir Bhutto (late) and also appreciated the leadership of President
Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani.
Dr Fehmida Mirza thanked the Turkish president for his
hospitality and appreciated his role in promoting unity in the Muslim
world. She informed Gul of the working of the NA and various issues
confronting the country and said Pakistan was committed to promotion
of peace in the region.
Separately, the NA speaker called on Turkish Grand National
Assembly Speaker Mehmet Ali Sahin at the Parliament House in Ankara.
Both of them agreed to strengthen the cooperation between the
parliaments of the two countries. Dr Mirza informed the speaker about
Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism and urged the international
community to help Pakistan in strengthening its democratic institutions.
The NA speaker appreciated Turkey’s role in bringing Pakistan and
Afghanistan closer through the trilateral summits held by the three
countries and also thanked the Turkish nation for their support to the
affectees of the 2005 earthquake in northern Pakistan. National Assembly
Speaker Dr Fehmida Mirza said that time is running short for developing
countries to understand that democracy needs to be strengthened or
people of these countries will lose hope in democracy and that would
allow dictatorships to flourish. The speaker said that lawmakers of both
the countries could play a meaningful role in the region as parliamentary
diplomacy could enable the real policy makers to understand each other’s
point of view in a better way.
Mehmat Ali Sahin said Turkey is proud of Dr Mirza, as she is the
first woman speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan and assured
her of Turkey’s support for the economic development of Pakistan.
Also on Wednesday, Murat Merrcan, president of the Foreign
Relations Committee of the Grand Turkish Assembly called on Dr
Mirza. They discussed the overall political situation of the region and
international disputes like the Kashmir problem and the Palestine issue.
Dr Fehmida Mirza also visited the Turkish National Education Ministry
and met Turkish Education Minister Nimet Cubukcu. Matters relating to
promotion of education were discussed in the meeting. National
Assembly Speaker Dr Fehmida Mirza stressed on the need for improving

82 IPRI Factfile
the literacy rates, which she termed as the true indicators of a nation’s
social and economic development. Turkey will continue to support
Pakistan, says Abdullah Gul.
NA Speaker Fehmida Mirza calls on Turkish president, speaker of Turkish
Grand National Assembly. Staff Report
Turkey established diplomatic relations soon after the
independence of Pakistan in 1947 and bilateral relations became
increasingly close important owing to cultural, religious and geopolitical
links between the two countries. Turkey and Pakistan are founding
members of the Economic Cooperation Organization (formerly the
RCD) and part of the Developing 8 Countries (D-8) organization.
Turkey under the new government is building economic ties with
Pakistan, so that it can create a strong ECO and that the bonds of
friendship are stronger.. Both nations have worked to negotiate a
preferential trading agreement, aiming to considerably increase trade and
investments, especially in transport, telecommunications, manufacturing,
tourism and other industries. Both governments have sought to increase
the volume of bilateral trade from $690 million to more than $1 billion
by 2010. A $20 Billion train line linking Islamabad to Istanbul is being
built at a cost of $20 billion. This rail network will further consolidate
the neural network between Pakistanis and Turks. Turkey launched a
trilateral summit process between the two states and Afghanistan in
February 2007 which culminated in Feb 2010 in the inclusion of Bharat
from making decision in Afghanistan.
On 16th of October, the Turkish Prime Minster went to the
Turkish nation and asked them “when we needed them, the Pakistani
Muslims were there for the Ottoman “khilafat”, today your brothers and
sisters need you in their hour or need“. From across the great nation of
Turkey, school girls, and old men, student and professionals gave and
gave and gave. One girl in New Jersey collect $1500 on her own and then
brought us the money. Schools across Turkey collected, not thousands,
but millions of Dollars for their Pakistani brethren. Turkey became the
largest donor for the Earthquake relief for Pakistan. Long Live Pakistan
Turki dosti!
Rupee News, March 10, 2010,
http://rupeenews.com/2010/03/10/grand-welcome-awaits-turkish-presidentabdullah-gul-in-islamabad-uzun-yasamak-turkiye-ve-uzun-yasamakpakistan/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 83
%3A+RupeeNewsRecordingHistoryNarratingArchivesStrategicVisionProfound
AnalysisUniqueIdeas+%28Rupee+News%3A+Recording+History%2C+Narra
ting+Archives%2C+Strategic+Vision%2C+Profound+Analysis%2C+Unique
+ideas%29
SPEECH BY THE PRIME MINISTER SYED YUSUF RAZA
G ILANI AT PAKISTAN-TURKEY CEO FORUM
31 MARCH 2010
Your Excellency
Dr. Abdullah Gul,
President of the Republic of Turkey,
Honourable Ministers of the Governments of Turkey and Pakistan,
Other Members of the Turkish Delegation,
Honorable Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen.
It is a matter of great honour for me to welcome you, Your Excellency,
Brother Abdullah Gul, President of the Republic of Turkey to the
Pakistan - Turkey CEO’s Forum.
I also would like to extend my whole-hearted welcome to the
members of your entourage as well as the eminent business leaders from
Turkey.
It is always a pleasure to welcome friends from Turkey with which
Pakistan enjoys unique relations.
I would like to appreciate the efforts of Board of Investment and
the Islamabad Chambers of Commerce and Industry for co-hosting this
interactive session.
This joint sitting of Pakistani business leaders along with their
Turkish counterparts is not only a manifestation of our cordial fraternal
ties; it reflects the joint commitment and determination of both sides to
broaden the horizon of our economic cooperation.
The fact that members of the Pakistani business community have
traveled all the way from Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, Muzaffarabad and
Gilgit to be part of this event, is also reflective of the importance,
Pakistan’s business community attaches to this Forum.
Excellency,
Trade and Investment play a pivotal role in strengthening the economic
and political ties between the nations.

84 IPRI Factfile
We are living in times when economic considerations drive our
political motivations. Globalization has created greater inter dependence
among the states, necessitating intensified economic interaction between
them to overcome the new challenges, presented by it. In this context,
Turkey and Pakistan enjoy special standings in their respective regions.
Their democratic credentials lend great strength to their economic
profiles. Our corporate sectors represent the great potential of our two
countries and their peoples.
And here lies our real strength, which can be realized through joint
efforts. Today’s Forum is yet another stepping stone towards achieving
jointly the economic prosperity for our two peoples.
The businessmen from the two sides must fully avail this
opportunity.
Excellency,
Under your able leadership, Turkey has taken impressive strides in the
economic arena.
It was Turkey’s economic resilience that helped the country tide
over the global recession. Turkey, therefore, stands out as a commendable
example for developing countries that seek to achieve progress and
development in today’s uncertain environment.
We in Pakistan regard Turkey’s success as our own. We derive
inspiration from Turkey’s impressive performance and hope to emulate
your remarkable model of growth and development.
Pakistan, like Turkey, was able to steer clear of the economic
upheaval that rocked the world in 2008-2009. That was because our
economic fundamentals were and remain sound and solid.
It is a matter of satisfaction that the resilience of Pakistan’s
economy owes a great deal to our policies.
With the people’s welfare at heart and the country’s economic turn
around in mind, Pakistan is poised to march ahead with ever greater
confidence, on the road to prosperity.
Excellency,
Pakistan with its vast land mass, a market of over 170 million and an
efficient workforce of 46 million, offers vast business and investment
opportunities.
Its 200,000 square kilometers of irrigated land, 1150 kilometers of
coast line, vast untapped mineral reserves and the presence of 700

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 85
multinationals are some of the indicators of its economic potential and a
conducive environment for foreign investment.
The complementarities and strengths of Pakistan & Turkey’s
economies can generate a much higher volume for bilateral trade, than at
present.
To achieve this we have to target greater trade through preferential
trade arrangements and improved market access to each other’s products.
The target of bilateral trade of US$ 2 billion by 2012, set by our
two countries, can be achieved, provided we can take resolute and
concerted efforts to reach that goal.
Pakistan is pursuing economic development through market
liberalization, and reposing confidence in its private sector to lead from
the front. We offer equal treatment to local and foreign investors.
All sectors of economy are open for foreign investment. Any
foreign entrepreneur can come to Pakistan and start business here
without undergoing cumbersome processes of approvals or sanctions.
Foreign entrepreneurs can invest in Pakistan on 100% equity basis
or through joint ventures. The responsible authorities in Pakistan will
help and facilitate them in their endeavours.
In tandem, Pakistan has approved a policy for establishing Special
Economic Zones where investment would enjoy additional incentives.
Investors can remit royalty, technical & franchise fees, capital, profits and
dividends to their home countries. Besides, their investment in Pakistan
will be fully protected, under the law.
Excellency and distinguished participants,
Pakistan’s financial sector is one of the most resilient in Asia; energy
including alternate energy; agribusiness and agro-industry, infrastructure,
social sectors, tourism and connectivity with the region and beyond
through establishment of rail and road linkages, are some of the
prospective fields where joint collaboration between our corporate
entities stand tremendous scope.
Details on individual proposals, of collaboration or joint ventures
in these fields, I am given to understand, have been discussed and tabled
in the morning session.
Let me also state here that we are not looking forward to a one
way traffic in this regard.

86 IPRI Factfile
Pakistani businessmen can also explore the investment
opportunities in Turkey and our Government would fully support and
facilitate them.
Our government, may I assure you, would take every measure
possible to assist our two business communities in materialization of their
respective investment plans.
I wish the businessmen of our two countries fruitful interaction and
all success in their ventures.
Thank you.
Speech by the Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani at Pakistan-Turkey CEO Forum, March
31, 2010,
http://www.pak.gov.pk/PMAddresses/pmspeech31-03-2010.pdf
PAKISTAN, TURKEY SIGN T HREE MOUS O N ECONOMIC
COOPERATION
Pakistan and Turkey signed three Memoranda of Understanding in
the areas of economic cooperation, agriculture and investment
President Asif Ali Zardari and Turkish President Abdullah Gul witnessed
the signing ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr as the representatives of respective
organizations inked the documents.
Advisor to Prime Minister on Economic Affairs Dr Hafeez Sheikh
signed the MoU on Planning Commission. Minister for Agriculture
Nazar Muhammad Gondal and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs
Mehmet Mehdi Eker from the Turkish side inked the document on agrobased
industries.
Under the MoU, the two sides will promote and encourage their
private sectors to establish proprietary enterprises and joint ventures with
an objective of encouraging investment in fruit and food processing,
commercial production of olives, corporate livestock farming, dairy
industry, fisheries, poultry farming, cold storage facilities, commercial
production of seeds and nurseries and commercial production of flowers,
spices and medicinal herbs and their marketing.
For signing of MoU on commercial cooperation between Board of
Investment and Turkish Investment Support and Promotion Agency, the
Pakistani side was represented by Saleem H. Mandviwala, Chairman BOI
while the Turkish side was led by Buyukelci Engin Soysal, Mustesar
Yardimeisi.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 87
Under the MoU, the cooperation will be strengthened to boost
investments between the two countries. The MoU aims at promotion of
productive and commercial cooperation and support of enterprises in
implementing common projects and transfer of know how. Both sides
will encourage joint projects by involving local institutions.
The entrepreneurs of either side shall be encouraged to hold 100 per
cent equity or to enter joint ventures and shall be free to trade or dispose
of their shares.
A Pakistan News, March 31, 2010,
http://www.apakistannews.com/pakistan-turkey-sign-three-mous-on-economiccooperation-173304
PRESIDENT G UL L EAVES INDELIBLE IMPRINTS
The four-day State visit of Turkish President Abdullah Gul to Pakistan
has afforded another opportunity to the two brotherly countries to take
their already cordial and close relations to new heights. His engagements
in Islamabad, interaction with Pakistani leadership and touching remarks
made about Pakistan by the visiting dignitary on Wednesday showed not
only his personal keen interest in giving new meaning to bilateral
relationship but also desire of his country to help Pakistan overcome
multi-dimensional challenges. All this would surely leave indelible
imprints on the hearts and minds of Pakistani people.
Pakistan and Turkey have traditionally enjoyed strong ties
spanning over political, cultural, commercial, strategic and military
cooperation. The founding father of Pakistan, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad
Ali Jinnah had expressed his desire to follow the Turkish model of
modernism and since then every successive government in Pakistan made
endeavours to promote ties with Turkey. The brotherly country too has
proved to be a sincere and time-tested partner of Pakistan, providing
much-needed political, diplomatic and economic support in times of
need. The present leadership of Turkey — President Abdullah Gul and
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan evoke special respect in Pakistan
because of their love for Pakistani people and also because they are
perceived to be working to regain the glory of Turkey as a strong Muslim
State. It was in this backdrop that Mr Erdogan was awarded the Nishan-e-
Pakistan in October 2009 and became the fourth world leader who spoke
to the Pakistani Parliament. The two countries, which signed a treaty of
friendship and cooperation way back in 1954, have a strategic

88 IPRI Factfile
relationship. They have marked similarity of views on regional and
international issues and it is a matter of pride for every Pakistani that
Turkey always provided the much-needed support to Pakistan on
Kashmir dispute. Similarly, Pakistan has wholeheartedly supported
Turkish position on the issue of Northern Cyprus. While the two
countries have enjoyed excellent political relations for several decades
now, what is surprising is that these historic ties have not translated into
better trade and economic cooperation. Though the two countries have
committed to taking the existing $690 million trade to over one billion
dollar this year, even this is not commensurate with the potential of their
partnership. A large number of Turkish businessmen too are visiting
Pakistan along with President Gul and one hopes that in keeping with the
global trends, economic interaction will assume centre-stage in relations
between the two countries.
Editorial, Pakistan Observer (Islamabad), April 1, 2010,
http://pakobserver.net/detailnews.asp?id=23335
JOINT PRESS STATEMENT ON PAKISTAN-TURKEY SPECIAL
RELATIONSHIP
On the occasion of the state visit of H.E. Abdullah Gül, President of the
Republic of Turkey, to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Acknowledging
the deep bonds of friendship and goodwill that exist between the peoples
and Governments of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Republic of
Turkey.
Recognizing that their relationship stems from shared roots in
history and heritage; as well as cultural, linguistic, historical and
civilizational commonalities.
Recalling the valuable mutual support extended by the peoples and
Governments of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Republic of
Turkey on national causes and issues of common concern.
Underscoring that this support has been a manifestation of their
close friendly relations, and historic affinities, and reaffirming their desire
to continue this support.
Appreciating Turkey’s special role in promoting peace, security and
development in the region, as well as acting as a bridge between the East
and the West.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 89
Reiterating their shared desire to build on their geo-economic
advantages to advance their genuine special relationship to unprecedented
levels.
Recalling the visit by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan to
Pakistan in October 2009, and the adoption during the visit of the Joint
Political Declaration on Intensified Cooperation and Establishment of the
High Level Cooperation Council (HLCC.)
The Parties Hereby
Agree to accord high priority to further enhancement of multi-faceted
and broad based cooperation through among other means, increased
connectivity, promotion of bilateral trade and investment and further
expansion of people to people contacts and exchanges.
Connectivity, Trade and Finance
Agree to collaborate closely to upgrade and operationalize road, air and
rail connectivity.
Agree to commence periodic cargo train service between the two
countries, beginning August 2010.
Express satisfaction in this regard at the ratification and entry into
force of the bilateral Road Transport Agreement, which will allow
transporters from either country access to territories of Turkey and
Pakistan.
Note with satisfaction the growth in bilateral trade, and reaffirm
their desire to achieve the target of $ 2 billon trade volume by the year
2012, through among other means, early finalization of a strategic
economic cooperation framework, as well as fast tracked trade facilitation
and promotion measures, including early implementation of the
Agreement on Abolition of Visas for Businessmen.
The two sides will enter into bilateral preferential trade
arrangements, unleashing free market opportunities in both countries.
Agree further to coordinate positions and work closely with a view
to ensuring earliest possible implementation of the ECO Trade
Agreement, to which both countries are signatories.
Welcome the holding of two Sessions of Pakistan-Turkey CEOs
Forum during the current visit of President Abdullah Gül to Pakistan;

90 IPRI Factfile
Agree to utilize the Forum as a special purpose vehicle to encourage winwin
partnerships among their respective corporate sectors.
Agree to promote cooperation in the financial sector by, inter alia,
encouraging Turkish and Pakistani commercial banks and financial
institutions to open branches in the two countries.
Agree also to work jointly for further expansion and consolidation
of ECO Trade and Development Bank.
Energy, Tourism and Development
Welcome the signing of the memoranda of understanding in the fields of
planning, agriculture and investments; Decide to ensure early
implementation of the Agreements, with a view to benefiting fully from
each other’s experience and expertise in the field of development.
Agree to formulate a Plan of Action on Cooperation in the field of
Energy including cooperation in the area of new and renewable energy.
Agree to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the field of
tourism, with particular emphasis on development of Pakistan’s tourism
sector.
Agree to finalize the Protocol on the Establishment of the Turkish
International Cooperation and Development Agency (TIKA) Office in
Islamabad at the earliest.
Security and Military Cooperation
Agree to continue to broaden and deepen security cooperation in their
campaigns against terrorism and extremism, illicit arms trafficking, as
well as counter narcotics and human smuggling.
In line with the existing Military Cooperation Agreements, agree to
further intensify ongoing cooperation between Turkey and Pakistan in
the area of military training and education, as well as promotion of trade
and partnerships in the field of defence production and procurement.
Cultural and Educational Cooperation; People to People
Exchanges
The two sides will continue to promote exchanges of cultural delegations
and troupes, organization of cultural events, and examine the possibility
of establishing cultural centres.
Agree to further enhance educational scholarships.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 91
Agree to encourage and enhance exchanges among
parliamentarians, academia, journalists, think tanks and opinion makers
in respective countries.
International and Regional Forums
Agree to maintain close contacts and consultations on all issues of mutual
interest, and to deepen mutual support at international and regional
forums, including the United Nations, OIC and ECO.
Agree to follow up the outcomes of the Trilateral Summit process
between Pakistan, Turkey and Afghanistan.
Agree to implement as a matter of priority, various initiatives set
out in the Istanbul Statement on Friendship and Cooperation in the
Heart of Asia of 26 January 2010, in particular the Minds Platform that
would bring together selected members of academia, media, and thinktanks.
Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs, April 2, 2010.
http://www.mfa.gov.tr/joint-press-statement-on-pakistan-turkey-specialrelationship.en.mfa
PRESIDENT ABDULLAH G UL’S VISIT
The highlight of Turkish President Abdullah Gul’s visit to Pakistan was
his remark that political concord and brotherly relations between the two
countries should be concretised and reflected in enhanced cooperation.
During the visit, Memorandums of Understanding have been signed
between Pakistan and Turkey in various areas pertaining to the economy,
including investment, infrastructure and agriculture. Turkey has also
offered to help Pakistan in overcoming the energy crisis, which is one of
Pakistan’s biggest problems these days that needs to be resolved on a war
footing. Turkey’s help to Pakistan in setting up new thermal power
plants to meet the shortfall will be of great value. Moreover, Turkey’s
expertise in construction could be used in planning and building small
and medium sized dams. Another important outcome of the visit was an
affirmation of close people-to-people contacts and the need for better
trade and travel links. A rail link between Pakistan and Turkey as an
extention of the Pak-Iran railway would go a long way in helping
Pakistan to enhance trade not only with Turkey, but also onward with
Europe.

92 IPRI Factfile
In the past also, Turkey has cooperated with Pakistan in various
sectors. Pak-Turk international schools and colleges are doing a
commendable job of imparting modern education along with teaching a
moderate version of Islam since 1995. During his visit to Lahore, the
Turkish president offered to cooperate in setting up a technical university
on the model of Istanbul Technical University, a capital suggestion and
very welcome. Pakistan can learn from Turkey’s experience of success in
technical and higher education.
Having risen from of the ashes of the Ottoman Empire, Turkey is a
relatively developed country, knocking on the doors of the European
Union. In addition to enhanced cooperation in various sectors, Pakistan
should take a leaf out of Turkey’s book in managing its domestic affairs.
Turkey has taken the lead in commissioning the reinterpretation of
hadith literature in the light of modern developments. This is one area
where Pakistan could learn from Turkey in tackling militancy and
extremism, and commission such projects in its own universities.
Orthodox and outdated interpretations of religion have promoted
intolerance that forms the basis of militant ideology. Replacing these
interpretations with modern ones that are in line with current times
would strike at the roots of fundamentalist ideology that has permeated
all layers of Pakistan’s society. Expansion of Turkish schools in Pakistan
as well as exchange of religious scholars and students can help promote
this cause.
Kamal Attaturk laid the foundations of Turkey as a secular republic
despite its population being predominantly Muslim, which in no way has
diminished the importance of religion in the private lives of the Turkish
people. That secular tradition is defended to this day with great vigour
despite the fact that an Islamist party is in power. Although tensions still
exist between the military, which considers itself to be the guardian of the
secular character of the state, and the Justice and Development Party-led
political dispensation that came to power through a democratic process, it
has not disrupted the smooth functioning of the democratic system. It is a
measure of the maturity of Turkey’s democratic political system that
institutions of the state have been able to overcome their differences
without resorting to extra-constitutional means. We hope for a similar
future in Pakistan. Now that the 18th Amendment bill has been
presented in parliament, we hope it will usher in the consolidation of the

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 93
civilian democratic system in Pakistan.
Editorial, Daily Times (Lahore), April 3, 2010,
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2010\04\03\story_3-4-
2010_pg3_1
T URKEY AND PAKISTAN TO ACCELERATE THE DEVELOPMENT
OF ECONOMIC RELATIONS
Turkey and Pakistan enjoy strong political relations and now it’s time to
boost bilateral economic cooperation, President Abdullah Gul said during
his visit to Pakistan on the first of April. Completing his official talks in
the capital Islamabad, Gul proceeded to Lahore, Pakistan’s cultural
capital, to attend a meeting of the Turkish-Pakistani Business Forum.
There Gul received a warm welcome with Pakistani people waving
Turkish and Pakistani flags along the road where Gul’s procession passed.
During the welcoming ceremony at Lahore airport, famous Turkish
songs were performed by the Pakistani ceremonial band. “Our economic
relations fall short of what we want, so we must forge economic
cooperation in line with our excellent political relations,” Gul told the
meeting.
Gul said cargo train service would begin between Istanbul and
Islamabad, and that Turkish and Pakistani businessmen should become
better acquainted. Calling on businesspeople from both sides to make use
of their countries’ potential in energy, industry, manufacturing industry,
agriculture, food and construction, Gul said Turkey is ready to share its
experiences with Pakistan in dam and hydroelectric power plant
construction and contracting services. He urged Turkish and Pakistani
entrepreneurs to establish partnerships, calling for more Turkish
investments in Pakistan.
Chief Minister of the Punjab Shahbaz Sharif has recently
announced the setting up of a dedicated 225-acre industrial estate in
Faisalabad for Turkish and joint venture companies.
Turkey has released $10 million of the $100 million pledged at the
Friends of Democratic Pakistan forum and is assisting, through its private
sector, Pakistan meet its energy requirements.
Turkey’s Zorlu Energy has set up Pakistan’s first wind-based power
project at Jhimpir, and Karkey Karadeniz will provide Karachi with
500MW of barge-mounted rental power.

94 IPRI Factfile
Turkey and Pakistan are part of the D8 and the Economic
Cooperation Organization, which has developed and implemented the
Pakistan-Iran-Turkey cargo train service to facilitate trade among the
countries and also potentially allow Pakistani products access to
European markets.
Gul also said Turkey and Pakistan support each other on
international platforms. After Gul’s speech, officials from the Turkish
Union of Chambers and Commodities Exchanges (TOBB) and the
Lahore industrial zone signed an agreement paving the way for Turkish
investments in the area. In Pencap state, Gul also watched a polo game
and a local equestrian sports show called Tent Pegging. Gul was also
given an Arabic horse as a gift there.
D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation, April 6, 2010,
http://www.developing8.org/2010/04/06/turkey-and-pakistan-to-accelerate-thedevelopment-of-economic-relations/
PAK-TURK JOINT DEFENCE PRODUCTION
Taking to a Pakistani defence delegation, headed by Defence Minister Ch.
Ahmad Mukhtar, in Ankara, Turkish President Abdullah Gul, who is an
ardent advocate of cementing strategic partnership with Pakistan, has
floated the idea of initiating joint defence production projects between
the two countries. He emphasized that the existing strategic partnership
between Pakistan and Turkey provides an opportunity for joint ventures
among defence production organs of the defence forces of the two
countries.
According to defence analysts, heavy investment in defence
industry during the last two decades has helped modernize Turkey’s
military into a crack fighting force while reducing the country’s
dependence on the costly imported weapons. Turkey’s defence products
range from modern jet fighters and complex components of anti-aircraft
missiles to high speed patrol boats to frigates to armoured vehicles to
sophisticated air defence and electronic command and control systems.
Pakistan too has attained self-sufficiency in defence production sector as
indigenous facilities are not only fulfilling requirements of our armed
forces but the surplus is exported to a number of friendly countries. Its
defence products meet European and NATO standards and that is why
its customers include countries like the United States. Last year, the
country entered into agreements with six renowned international firms
for joint ventures for manufacturing of modern weapons. Therefore, by

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 95
combining their expertise and pooling their resources, Pakistan and
Turkey can not only meet modern-day requirements of their armed
forces but also fulfil needs of a number of Islamic and other countries.
The Western suppliers, who are dominating the field, often impose
conditions that impinge upon the sovereignty of the buyer States and,
therefore, Turkey and Pakistan have great potential to turn their joint
projects into profitable ventures. Of course, there are issues of financing
but friendly Gulf countries can assist a lot, as these ventures could be of
immense help to them as well. It is not for the first time that Turkey has
offered joint ventures in defence production but response from our side
has been very slow. Hopefully, this time the timely offer would be
responded with the same spirit and practical steps would be taken to
translate this dream into a reality for the benefit of the two brotherly
countries.
Editorial, Pakistan Observer (Islamabad), July 16, 2010,
http://pakobserver.net/detailnews.asp?id=41692
IRAN, PAKISTAN, TURKEY TO LAUNCH F REIGHT T RAIN
The first freight train running between Islamabad and Istanbul through
Tehran will start operating on Aug. 12, Pakistani news reports said over
the weekend.
“The Economic Cooperation Organization [ECO] container train
will be running between Islamabad and Istanbul through Tehran on the
first Thursday of every month,” an official of the Pakistani Ministry of
Railways was quoted as saying on Saturday.
The first trans-country and fourth international train service to be
operated by Pakistan Railways would leave Istanbul and Islamabad
simultaneously, the report noted.
All three countries are founding members of the ECO, which is an
intergovernmental regional organization established in 1985 for the
purpose of promoting economic, technical and cultural cooperation
among member states.
In March 2009, during a meeting of senior railway officials of the
three countries, Turkey, Pakistan and Iran had agreed in principle to start
such a container train service.
Containers carrying commercial goods are currently sent from
Turkey to Pakistan by ship. Pakistani authorities say the train service will
reduce costs and make transportation more convenient. Turkey and Iran

96 IPRI Factfile
already have railway connections at their borders, and both have freight
and passenger train services.
“An ECO passenger train is already operating between Istanbul and
Tehran, and its service will shortly be extended to Ashgabat,
Turkmenistan. The modalities to extend its operation to Pakistan are
being considered,” the same Pakistani official also said.
News Az, August 2, 2010,
http://www.news.az/articles/20170
T URKEY MOBILISED TO EXTEND HELP TO MILLIONS OF
F LOOD VICTIMS IN PAKISTAN
Turkish state institutions and civil society have mobilized to provide
post-disaster relief to Pakistan in the aftermath of the most disastrous
floods in the country’s history. A countrywide aid campaign has been
launched in Turkey upon the order of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip
Erdogan. A circular bearing the signature of Erdogan was published in
the Official Gazette yesterday announcing the launching of the campaign.
The prime minister said in the circular that Turkey has so far sent
four planes full of medicine, food, clothing and tents to Pakistan,
underlining that it is next to impossible for a country to overcome such a
disaster on its own.
Speaking at Istanbul Ataturk Airport prior to his visit to the US to
attend a UN meeting on Pakistan, State Minister Egemen Bagış said
Turkey has already donated $ 5 million in cash to the flood-stricken
country and that an additional $5 million will be provided soon. Bagış
said the aid campaign, titled “From People to People,” will be
coordinated by the Prime Ministry’s Disaster and Emergency
Management Directorate. The United Nations General Assembly will
convene a special session today in a show of solidarity with Pakistan and
encourage countries to donate aid to flood victims.
Permanent members of the Organization of the Islamic Conference
(OIC) also convened at an emergency meeting yesterday.
Swollen as a result of torrential monsoon rains, rivers have flooded
Pakistan’s mountain valleys and fertile plains, killing up to 1,600 people
and leaving 2 million homeless.
Six million people still need food, shelter, water and medicine, the
United Nations says.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 97
Turkish businessmen have been extending a helping hand to the
Pakistanis. More than 3,000 members of the Turkish Confederation of
Businessmen and Industrialists (TUSKON) have donated to relief efforts
in the country so far. Fettah Tamince, the chairman of the Rixos hotel
chain, has announced that his company will send 40 tons of aid to the
country within a few days by two cargo planes. He added that his
business colleagues have also told him that they will support him.
Pakistani Consul General in Istanbul Yousaf Junaid said Turkey is
Pakistan’s biggest supporter. They have not been able to explain to the
world the seriousness of the disaster, he said, but noted that the country
needs urgent aid.
The consul general spoke at a press conference organized by the
Humanitarian Aid Foundation (İHH). The death toll is increasing by the
day, Junaid said, with 25 million people having become victims of the
flood so far. He stressed that the country is trying to overcome a disaster
that even developed nations would have difficulty overcoming.
Junaid underlined that Turkey was the first country to help
Pakistan, adding that flood victims urgently need clean water, food,
blankets, tents and medical supplies.
Cihan Yenilmez & Mustafa Gun, Today’s Zaman (Istanbul), August 19, 2010,
http://www.todayszaman.com/tz-web/news-219455-turkey-mobilized-toextend-help-to-millions-of-flood-victims-in-pakistan.html
PRESIDENT G UL CALLS ON T URKEY TO HELP
F LOOD-HIT PAKISTAN
Calling the extending of aid to Pakistan the responsibility of the Turkish
people, President Abdullah Gul asked the nation Friday to help the
disaster-hit country.
“I am calling on all our people to actively participate in these
ongoing aid campaigns. I am sure that the Turkish people will do it. Not
only because we are friends and brothers with Pakistan, but also for
humanitarian reasons,” Gul told reporters Friday in Istanbul.
Noting that the Pakistani people helped Turks during the War of
Independence in the 1920s and the devastating Marmara earthquake in
1999, Gul said it was now Turkey’s turn to help flood-ravaged Pakistan.
The Turkish president welcomed the aid campaigns launched by
the media, civilian organizations and trade chambers, and said the
Turkish Armed Forces, the office of the Prime Minister and other state

98 IPRI Factfile
institutions would join the Red Crescent in sending humanitarian aid to
Pakistan.
In a symbolic move, Gul donated money to a charity that was
collecting donations from people outside of a mosque in Istanbul.
With efforts underway at Turkish state institutions and
nongovernmental organizations to help the people of Pakistan, bank
accounts for donations have been opened within the scope of the aid
campaigns. The Turkish Red Crescent will collect in-kind and monetary
contributions and send them to the region to meet the needs of flood
victims.
Daily Hurriyet has donated 100,000 Turkish Liras to the effort
through the campaign it launched for Pakistan. Vuslat Dogan Sabancı,
publisher of daily Hurriyet, donated 25,000 liras while Ferit Şahenk, the
CEO of Doguş Holding, gave 100,000 liras.
The Red Crescent will send an additional 105 tons of aid material to
the region in line with the needs there, including prefabricated houses to
provide temporary shelter that will be sent by train. The organization has
already sent 140 tons of aid material, including foodstuffs and cleaning
equipment, potable water, blankets, medicine and tents.
Ankara Mayor Melih Gokçek meanwhile said Friday that his
municipality would join the effort to send aid to Pakistan. According to a
statement by the municipality, it plans to send 75 tons of food and
cleaning supplies, along with four mobile bread bakeries.
Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review, (Ankara), August 20, 2010,
http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=president-gul-calls-the-nation-tohelp-pakistan-2010-08-20
T URKEY TO EXPAND ECONOMIC RELATIONS WITH PAKISTAN:
ABDULLAH G UL
Turkey was eager to expanding its economic relations with Pakistan as
both countries had great potential to creating new opportunities of
economic well-being and prosperity for their people by complementing
each other in different areas.
This was said by. Abdullah Gul, President of Turkey while
addressing the 2nd Pak-Turkish CEOs Forum, which was jointly
organized by Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI) and
the Board of Investment (BOI) here on Thursday.

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 99
He said energy was an important issue for Pakistan’s economic
growth and Turkey with its vast experience of exploiting hydro and
other energy sources was keen to fully support Pakistan in overcoming
its energy problems.
He said Turkey had constructed some of the world’s biggest dams
and it could help Pakistan in building dams as Pakistan had good hydro
energy potential. He said Turkey was importing coal from Australia,
New Zealand and South Africa while Pakistan was endowed with lot of
coal reserves and both countries could cooperate in that area for mutual
benefits. Gul pinpointed agriculture, finance, railways & communication
and infrastructure development as other potential areas for increased
cooperation between the two countries.
He hoped that Pak-Turkish CEOs B2B meetings will lead to the
emergence of many success stories of direct investment and joint ventures
between the two countries for taking bilateral trade beyond the set target
of US$ 2 billion. He said both governments should develop a business
friendly legal framework to give enhanced role to their private sectors for
strengthening economic cooperation.
Addressing the forum, Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, Prime Minister of
Pakistan was pursuing economic development through market
liberalization. He lauded the efforts of ICCI and BOI for co-hosting
CEOs forum which reflected the resolve of both countries to expand
bilateral business and investment relations.
He said that Pakistan was becoming an attractive place for investors
on the basis of its growing population and government has also made
investment friendly policies with attractive incentives for foreign
investors.
He urged that Turkish investors should avail these opportunities by
enhancing investment and entering joint ventures in Pakistan.
He said Pakistan and Turkey could overcome their current
challenges by intensifying economic interaction and facilitating their
entrepreneurs to lead from the front for promoting mutual cooperation.
Saleem H. Mandviwalla, Chairman, BOI in his address said that
Pakistan was setting up Special Economic Zones where investors would
enjoy special facilities and tax holidays. He invited Turkish entrepreneurs
to establish a special economic zone for Turkey in Pakistan and come
forward to enter into joint ventures with their Pakistani counterparts.
In his welcome address, Zahid Maqbool, President ICCI said that
Pakistan and Turkey enjoy strong ties, but bilateral trade was not

100 IPRI Factfile
reflecting their true potential. He said both countries should assign
pivotal role to their entrepreneurs for exploiting untapped trade and
economic potential between the two countries. He hoped that the 2nd
Pak-Turkish CEOs forum will open many new horizons of mutual
cooperation between the two countries.
Sultan Ahmed Chawla, President, FPCCI and President of Union
of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) also
addressed the forum and touched upon the areas which offered potential
for win-win results for both the countries.
Large number of Pakistani businessmen and members of Turkish
delegation attended the forum and held B2B discussion for exploring the
areas of common interest.
Online International News Network,
http://www.onlinenews.com.pk/details.php?id=160860
(accessed August 24, 2010).
T RADE BETWEEN PAKISTAN AND T URKEY
Trade Between Pakistan and Turkey [1997-2002]
Trade Between Pakistan & Turkey (Million US $)
Year Export Import
Balance
Of Trade
Total
Exports
Of
Pakistan
% Share in
Total
Exports
Total
Imports
Of Pakistan
% Share
in Total
Imports
1997-98 69.963 41.979 + 27.98 8627.663 0.81 10118.021 0.41
1998-99 37.525 140.042 - 102.52 7779.285 0.48 9431.656 1.48
1999-00 63.175 110.210 - 47.04 8568.559 0.74 10309.425 1.07
2000-01 100.160 47.460 + 52.70 9201.595 1.09 10728.918 0.44
2001-02 98.036 34.737 + 63.30 9202.218 1.07 10342.865 0.34
Trade Between Pakistan & Turkey (Million US $)

Pakistan - Turkey Relations 101
Pakistan Major Export & Import Items in (Million US$)
Major Exporting
Items
1999-00 2000-02
Textile yarn &
fabrics
Articles of
45.900 0.950
apparel/cloth
access
1.280 5.400
Leather & Leather
manufacture
1.34 4.380
Sports good 1.650 3.200
sesame (sesame
seed)
2.300 3.050
Items Of Export From Pakistan
Rice sesames (seas mum seed),
Leather & leather manufactures.
Textile yarn& fabrics, Articles of
apparel/cloth accessories, Animal
casing, sports goods surgical
instruments.
Major Importing
Items
1999-00 00-02
Sp. Mach. For
particular ind.
22.530 14.060
Essential
oil/Perfume material
5.290 4.430
Rubber manufactures
Elec.
4.590 3.880
Machinery/appl./par
ts
16.240 3.080
Textile fibers and
their waste
5.430 1.460
Items Of Import By Pakistan
Wheat unlimited, Chick-peas (Kabuli
Channa), Lentils (Masoor) High-speed
diesel, chemical, material & products,
Urea Whether/not aqueous solution,
E1. Mach./appl./parts. Gen ind. Mach.
Parts synch. Filament tow of acrylic,
Aluminum plate sheet 0.20mm.,
Special mach. For particular industry.
Transport vehicles, Di- ammonium
phosphate, Polyester fib. Not carded,
combed, Furnace oil, Plastic in primary
form, Power generating machines,
Essential oil/ perfume materials,
Textile fibers & their waste & others.
…
Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry,
http://www.fpcci.com.pk/tradep&turk.asp
(accessed August 30, 2010).
…
Trade Between Pakistan and Turkey [2001-2008]
Year Export Import Balance
of
Trade
Total
Exports of
Pakistan
%Share in
Total Exp.
Total
Imports of
Pakistan
(Million US $)
% Share
in Total
Imports
2001-02 98.036 34.737 63.30 9202.218 1.07 10342.865 0.34
2002-03 146.31 125.84 20.47 11160.246 1.31 12220.253 1.02
2003-04 218.795 77.831 140.96 12313.000 1.77 15592.000 0.49
2004-05 258.397 102.87 155.522 14,391.081 1.80 20,598.114 0.50
2005-06 304.502 188.89 115.702 16,452.398 1.85 28,586.007 0.66
2006-07 389.924 153.10 236.824 16,976.243 2.29 30,539.709 0.50
2007-08 455.315 118.512 336.803 19,222.857 2.37 39,968.496 0.30

102 IPRI Factfile
Share of Pakistan’s Exports in Share of Pakistan’s Imports in
Turkey’s Imports (2007)=0.22% Turkey’s Exports(2007)=0.14%
Major Items of export from Pakistan to Turkey
(US$ Million)
Commodity
Description
03-04 04-05 05-06 06-07 07-08
Cotton yarn &
woven fabrics
88.732 164.84 179.9 215.097 272.94
Man made
filament & yarns
16.992 19.934 20.828 19.745 25.26
Leather & Leather
manufactures
7.111 7.686 9.399 9.714 12.47
Sports Goods 7.842 4.082 5.755 5.86 7.41
Articles of
apparel/ cloth
access
0.919 1.383 5.588 5.024 6.43
Major Items of Import from Turkey to Pakistan
Commodity
Description
03-04 04-05 05-06 06-07 07-08
Road Vehicles 11.95 13.003 28.798 26.605 21.43
Boiler machinery &
mechanical app.
8.65 10.89 27.045 16.769 13.62
Telecommunication
& electrical equip.
7.55 6.129 5.809 15.056 12.24
Articles of Iron &
steel
7.012 3.257 4.8 30.164 22.96
Paper, paper board
& articles etc.
0.95 1.874 4.583 11.903 9.64
Source: WTO Trade data base-, World Development Indicators, Federal Bureau of Statistics.
http://www.fpcci.com.pk/trade-with-countries/Turkey.pdf
(accessed August 30, 2010).