ISTANBUL, 23 April 2021: Foreign Minister of Pakistan Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu on 23 April 2021 in Istanbul.
During the meeting, the two Foreign Ministers discussed various dimensions of bilateral relations — including political and diplomatic engagement, economic cooperation, as well as the regional security situation.
Foreign Minister Qureshi highlighted excellent bilateral relations between the two countries, based on shared history and commonality of views. The two sides discussed the ongoing preparations for the 7th Session of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) that will be held in Turkey post Ramadan.
Foreign Minister Qureshi also reiterated appreciation for Turkey’s principled and steadfast support on the issue of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir.
During the meeting, the two Foreign Ministers also exchanged views on the Afghan peace process, Istanbul Conference, and the US announcement on withdrawal of foreign troops. Highlighting Pakistan’s abiding interest in a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan, Foreign Minister Qureshi underscored Pakistan’s consistent efforts to facilitate the Afghan peace process. He expressed the hope that the Afghan parties would realize the opportunity and workout an inclusive politically negotiated settlement. The Foreign Ministers also lauded Turkey’s invaluable efforts to re-energize the Afghan peace process.
It was the third meeting between the two Foreign Ministers in 2021. Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu had visited Pakistan in January 2021 and the two Foreign Ministers also met on 29 March 2021 on the sidelines of 9th session of Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process Ministerial Conference in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. The frequency of high-level exchanges between the two countries reflects the strength of the bilateral relationship.