Cyprus News Agency

Speaking at the Pakistan–Türkiye Business Conference, Dar said the relationship between Pakistan and Türkiye is built on "a unique political trust throughout history," stressing that this foundation should now be reinforced through stronger economic cooperation.

He noted that Pakistan and Türkiye have supported each other for many years on international platforms, describing this political solidarity as the strongest pillar of bilateral relations. However, he emphasized that under current global conditions, political closeness alone is no longer sufficient and must be be complemented by economic partnership.

Dar said the global economy is undergoing rapid transformation, with geopolitical competition, shifting supply chains, the energy transition, and digitalization making international cooperation increasingly essential. In this context, he noted that economic diplomacy has become one of the key instruments of foreign policy.

He also referred to Pakistan's economic reform program led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, outlining measures aimed at improving the investment climate, strengthening macroeconomic stability, and enhancing the ease of doing business.

The minister said Turkish investors have significant opportunities in sectors including energy, mining, mineral resources, energy infrastructure, information technology, manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, tourism, and the defense industry. Investments in these fields, he added, would contribute not only to trade but also to technology transfer and job creation.

The conference also highlighted the need to expand cooperation in next-generation sectors such as artificial intelligence, digital innovation, financial technology, and advanced manufacturing. Joint projects involving universities, research institutions, and the private sector were identified as key to enhancing the competitiveness of both countries.

Dar also pointed to the strategic geographic positions of Pakistan and Türkiye, noting that the two countries serve as a bridge connecting Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, and that this advantage should be transformed into economic opportunities.

Concluding his remarks, Dar said that by working together, Pakistan and Türkiye could secure a stronger position in global markets, calling for deeper economic cooperation. He ended his speech with the message: "Pakistan and Türkiye must move forward together and shape the future together."