Türkiye, Iran reaffirm support amid Pakistan flood crisis

September 1, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan’s ongoing flood emergency dominated discussions as Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met separately with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Türkiye and President Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State in Tianjin.

Both leaders conveyed strong messages of solidarity with Pakistan. President Erdogan extended heartfelt condolences over the loss of lives and widespread damage, assuring that the Turkish government and people stand shoulder to shoulder with Pakistan.

President Pezeshkian also expressed deep sorrow over the devastation and reaffirmed Iran’s unwavering support for the people of Pakistan in this hour of need.

Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that responding to the floods remains the government’s foremost responsibility.

He noted that while media and stakeholders are pressing for his views on policy matters such as the PRCL Board and pending NICL issues, these will be addressed once the emergency situation subsides.

He stressed that the Ministry of Commerce, BNC, and PMO oversight mechanisms will ensure structured and transparent decisions when the time is appropriate. “At present, our undivided focus must remain on protecting lives and supporting affected communities,” he stated.

Beyond flood relief, both meetings reviewed the state of Pakistan’s bilateral relations with Türkiye and Iran, with satisfaction expressed over growing cooperation in political, economic, defense and security domains.

The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international developments, voicing grave concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

They jointly reaffirmed their commitment to defend the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and to condemn ongoing Israeli aggression on international platforms.

The meeting with President Pezeshkian was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and federal ministers.

These interactions reaffirmed the deep-rooted brotherly ties of Pakistan with Türkiye and Iran and highlighted their shared resolve to enhance cooperation not only for bilateral progress but also for peace, stability, and prosperity across the Muslim world.

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