Pakistan, Türkiye, Azerbaijan unite for regional prosperity

October 14, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan hosted the Third Trilateral Speakers' Conference with Türkiye and Azerbaijan on Monday, marking a significant milestone in parliamentary cooperation among the three brotherly nations.

The high-level diplomatic engagement brought together key parliamentary leaders to discuss regional peace, security, and economic prosperity.

President Asif Ali Zardari received Dr. Numan Kurtulmuş, Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye, and Mrs. Sahiba Gafarova, Chairperson of the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan, at Aiwan-e-Sadr. National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also attended the crucial meeting.

During the meeting, President Zardari emphasized Pakistan's deep-rooted ties with both nations, describing them as partnerships founded on shared faith, mutual trust, and collective regional aspirations.

He congratulated the speakers on the successful conclusion of the conference, noting the growing strength of parliamentary cooperation.

President Zardari highlighted the need to expand bilateral trade and investment between Pakistan and Türkiye, acknowledging significant growth potential beyond current trade volumes.

In a gesture symbolizing the strong friendship between the nations, he informed that an upcoming Special Economic Zone would be named the President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Special Industrial Zone.

The President also welcomed Türkiye's interest in Pakistan's Special Economic Zones and expressed appreciation for Turkish support, including backing for Pakistan's candidature to the UN Human Rights Council for 2026-2028.

President Zardari stressed the importance of joint efforts to enhance regional connectivity through major infrastructure projects.

He specifically highlighted the Istanbul Tehran Islamabad (ITI) Railway Corridor and the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) as critical initiatives for the region's economic future.

These ambitious connectivity projects are expected to play a pivotal role in boosting regional trade and strengthening economic linkages among participating nations.

The President emphasized that such infrastructure development would facilitate smoother movement of goods and services, ultimately contributing to shared prosperity across the region.

Discussing relations with Azerbaijan, President Zardari described the partnership as exemplary, built on mutual respect and strategic understanding.

Mrs. Gafarova extended greetings from Azerbaijan's leadership and invited Pakistani parliamentarians to visit Baku to explore cooperation opportunities, particularly on climate change challenges.

The Azerbaijani Speaker noted that the first trilateral conference was held in Azerbaijan, the second in Türkiye, and the third is now taking place in Pakistan, demonstrating the rotating nature of this important diplomatic initiative.

Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani addressed the conference as Special Guest, emphasizing that Pakistan, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan share a common vision for regional progress and prosperity.

Speaking on the theme "Strengthening fraternal ties: Parliamentary cooperation for regional peace, security and prosperity," he highlighted the power of dialogue, dignity, and democracy.

Gilani recalled historical solidarity among the nations, from the Khilafat Movement to Pakistan's support for Azerbaijan's sovereignty and Türkiye's advocacy for Kashmir.

He called for deeper cooperation in security, trade, education, technology, and cultural exchanges.

The Chairman Senate declared that Pakistan will host the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers' Conference (ISC) next month in Islamabad, continuing the momentum of parliamentary diplomacy. He described the trilateral meeting as a precursor to this broader initiative.

"Peace and prosperity are not destinations, they are journeys, and our nations are companions bound together by shared values and guided by shared purpose," Gilani stated, emphasizing the importance of collective action.

The meetings were attended by Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, Mr. Irfan Neziroğlu, Ambassador of Türkiye to Pakistan, and Mr. Khazar Farhadov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan.

The Third Trilateral Speakers' Conference represents a significant step forward in strengthening parliamentary ties and fostering regional cooperation among Pakistan, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan.

As the three nations continue to build on their historical friendship and shared values, the outcomes of this conference are expected to pave the way for enhanced collaboration across multiple sectors, contributing to regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

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