PM favours dialogue, diplomacy

Approves expansion of Lahore, Karachi airports

ISLAMABAD:

PM Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday, emphasising stronger bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkiye, called for an economic partnership to match the political and strategic bond between the two brotherly nations.

He was speaking as chief guest at a reception here marking the 103rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkiye.

In his address, PM Shehbaz Sharif congratulated President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Turkish government and the Turkish people. He said that under Erdogan's leadership, Turkiye had become an economic powerhouse, a pioneer in defence technology and one of the world's most generous humanitarian donors.

The prime minister described the Makkah Agreement, signed on August 7, 2026 between Pakistan, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia, as an important milestone that strengthens collective deterrence and shared commitment to regional peace and stability.

He said Pakistan would continue to champion dialogue, diplomacy, respect for international law and peaceful settlement of disputes.

Airports

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the expansion of Lahore and Karachi airports under their respective master plans, directing authorities to complete the projects within stipulated timelines while ensuring compliance with international standards.

Chairing a meeting on airport expansion and passenger facilitation here, the prime minister emphasized that passenger convenience must remain the top priority at all airports across the country.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, the meeting reviewed the findings of a recent survey conducted by an international firm to assess the quality of passenger facilities at major airports.