ISLAMABAD: A parliamentary delegation of Pakistan, led by National Assembly speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, called on Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim during its visit to Turkey.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed issues of bilateral interests and economic cooperation as well as the progress on the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is expected to conclude soon. Once signed, the two sides hoped, it would help boost the economic partnership envisioned by the leadership of both countries.

They also discussed mutual support on each other’s national causes — Cyprus and Kashmir.

Referring to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s recent visit to Turkey, Mr Yildirim said notable progress was made on cooperation in diverse fields, including infrastructure development, health, communications, media and culture and bilateral investments.

Mr Sadiq lauded the remarkable progress made by Turkey and commended the public welfare-oriented policies of the Turkish government.

He noted with satisfaction that the two countries were forging a strong partnership at all levels.

He stressed that special ties between Pakis­tan and Turkey should be sustained through more parliamentary exchanges and people-to-people contacts.

Mr Sadiq particularly thanked the Turkish lea­dership for their support for the cause of Kashmir and appreciated the participation of Turkey’s traditional Mehtar band in the Pakistan Day parade in Islamabad.

Meanwhile, the delegation also held talks with speaker of the Tur­kish Grand National Assembly Ismail Kahra­man to discuss bilateral ties.

The delegation comprised MNAs Muham­mad Pervaiz Malik, Sha­gu­fta Jumani, Seema Mohi­uddeen Jameeli, Tahira Aurangzeb, Shais­ta Pervaiz Malik, Mujahid Ali, Amir Ali Shah Jamote and Sheikh Salahuddin.

Published in Dawn, March 29th, 2017