Erdogan likely to visit Pakistan later this year, says Turkish envoy

Ihsan Mustafa sheds light on Pak-Turkey ties in talk with CPNE

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Pakistan is expected later this year, ambassador İhsan Mustafa said on Saturday.

The envoy made the remarks while speaking at the Meet the Editor forum organised by the Council of Pakistan Newspapers Editors in Islamabad.

"The trade volume is only $650 million with Pakistan which is less if you look at how robust ties are between us.... but I know we'll be able to increase that soon," Mustafa said.

The Turkish ambassador said that the biggest Turkish firms were operating in Pakistan, adding that, "We're trying to boost cooperation in all sectors."

He said Pak-Turk friendship was unique as there was no bone of contention between the two countries. "Pakistan and Turkey are working within a strategic framework and will continue to do so in the future," the Turkish envoy added.

Mustafa said Turkish company Hayat Kimiya was setting up its plant in Faisalabad.

Headquartered in Istanbul, the multinational company has subsidiaries across the globe, including Pakistan. It started its operations in the country last year.

Asked about military cooperation between the two countries, he said Turkish armed forces would take part in Youm-e-Pakistan ceremony in Islamabad next year.

Both the countries, he added, have earlier taken part in joint defense exercises.

Turning his attention to the tourism industry, Mustafa said Istanbul had earned in the past year $40 billion from tourism with over 25 million visitors to the country.

Turkey, he said, was ready to share its experiences with Pakistan on how to boost its tourism and hospitality industry.

Mustafa lauded the improved security situation in Pakistan, adding that "there is immense potential for tourism here".

"When no one was there for Pakistan, Turkey always stood by its side," the envoy said.