Pakistan–Turkey ties deepen, Ziraat Bank seeks Pakistan branch

December 10, 2025 (MLN):  Pakistan and Turkey reaffirmed their strategic partnership, with Turkey expressing hope that it’s major financial institution, Ziraat Bank, will soon be allowed to open a branch in Pakistan to boost bilateral trade and investment.

A 15-member high-level delegation from Turkey’s Bursa Chamber and Defence Cluster Association met Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan in Islamabad, said a press release issued.

Both sides discussed expanding cooperation in defence, communications, aerospace, food, automobile and manufacturing sectors with a strong emphasis on strengthening Business-to-Government (B2G) ties.

During the meeting, the delegation highlighted that all participating companies hold significant stakes in the MILGEM frigate project, emphasizing the strategic depth of industrial collaboration between Pakistan and Turkey.

 They also described Bursa as one of Turkey’s most influential industrial hubs and a major centre for advanced manufacturing and exports.

Welcoming the visitors, Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan said Pakistan and Turkey have always stood by each other in challenging times, adding that cooperation in defence and communications remains strategically important.

He noted that ties between the two countries grew even stronger during Pakistan’s recent conflict with India.

The minister emphasized the value of people-to-people connections, citing increased business activity following the launch of direct flights to Baku.

He said that improved air connectivity with Turkey would generate similar commercial benefits for both nations.

He also appreciated the delegation’s warm remark that the slogan “Jeevay Jeevay Pakistan” is fondly sung in Turkey.

Discussions also covered the Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul Railway Corridor, with the minister reaffirming Pakistan’s full cooperation in the project.

The delegation invited Abdul Aleem Khan to visit Bursa to further explore opportunities for collaboration.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing strong commitment to deepening bilateral trade, enhancing B2G cooperation, strengthening industrial partnerships and advancing long-term strategic cooperation between Pakistan and Turkey.

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