Turkey backs Pakistan’s stance on regional, international issues

Statement comes after Turkish ex-defence minister General Hulusi Akar calls on army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa

Turkish Defence Minister General (retired) Hulusi Akar called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Tuesday and discussed matters of mutual interest, the military said.

During the meeting, matters of mutual interest including defence and security cooperation between the two countries and overall regional security situation especially the Afghan peace process were discussed, a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

“Both reiterated the desire to further enhance bilateral relations including efforts for peace and stability in the region,” it added.

Millî Savunma Bakanı Hulusi Akar için İslamabad’daki Nur Khan Havaalanı'nda gerçekleşen karşılama töreninden görüntüler… https://t.co/PE10nn8xKK#MSB #HulusiAkar pic.twitter.com/bRcO4hnsmZ

— T.C. Millî Savunma Bakanlığı (@tcsavunma) August 10, 2021

The visiting dignitary reaffirmed Turkey's full support to Pakistan's stance on regional and international issues, the military’s media wing said.

In June this year, Gen Qamar met Gen (retd) Hulusi during his day-long visit to Turkey and discussed matters of mutual interest including the Afghan reconciliationi process.

Commander Turkish General Staff General Yasar Guler and Commander of the Turkish Land Forces General Umit Dundar were also present in the meeting, said the ISPR.

Gen Qamar had acknowledged the Turkish engagements with Pakistan especially the ongoing efforts for continuing the positivity for peace in the region, the ISPR said.

He also reiterated that Turkey is one of the key Muslim countries in the region and that enhanced Pakistan-Turkey cooperation will have a positive impact on regional peace and stability.