Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan arrived in Islamabad shortly after midnight on Thursday, finishing his two-day official visit to Pakistan. He was warmly received by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari in Rawalpindi, marking the beginning of a visit to strengthen the longstanding “brotherly relations” between the two nations.
A formal welcome ceremony was held at the Prime Minister’s House, where President Erdogan was greeted with traditional hospitality and military precision. A contingent of the armed forces presented a guard of honor, and the national anthems of both countries were played. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir welcomed the Turkish president, exchanging handshakes and pleasantries.
The ceremony featured a spectacular aerial salute, with three F-16 fighter jets flying in formation to honor the visiting dignitary. Prime Minister Shehbaz introduced his cabinet members to President Erdogan, including Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and other key ministers. In return, Erdogan introduced members of his high-level delegation, which included Turkish ministers, senior officials, and corporate leaders. The two leaders are expected to discuss key areas of cooperation, including trade, defense, and regional stability, during Erdogan’s visit.
As a symbol of enduring friendship, PM Shehbaz and President Erdogan planted a sapling at the PM House. The visit was further celebrated with cultural dance performances along Constitution Avenue, which was adorned with flags of both countries and banners highlighting the strong bilateral ties. A special song praising the Turkish president was also aired on TV channels following the ceremony.
President Erdogan’s trip to Pakistan marks the final leg of his overseas tour, which included stops in Malaysia and Indonesia. Accompanied by a high-level delegation, his visit underscores the importance of enhancing bilateral ties and exploring new avenues of partnership.
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