Pakistan, Turkiye vow to expand trade

Pakistan and Turkiye reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and increasing trade volume during a meeting on Thursday between Turkish Trade Minister Prof Dr Omer Bolat and Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb.

The meeting was marked by a discussion on the enduring brotherly relationship between the two nations and their mutual potential for economic and trade growth, according to a press release from the finance ministry.

The finance minister warmly welcomed Minister Bolat and his delegation, emphasising the long-standing historical and cultural ties between Pakistan and Turkiye. He provided an update on Pakistan's improving economic fundamentals, including a stable currency, foreign exchange reserves exceeding $9 billion, and a decline in inflation rates.

The finance minister assured Bolat of the Pakistani government's dedication to supporting investors by streamlining regulations and enhancing the ease of doing business.

In response, Bolat underscored the shared commitment of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Erdo?an to strengthen bilateral ties, with a particular focus on boosting trade and investment. He identified several key sectors for potential investment, including services, health, education, medicine, and fashion.

Bolat also proposed measures to facilitate investment for Turkish companies to build investor confidence and suggested increasing flight connectivity between Pakistan and Turkiye to support greater economic exchange.