ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Turkey agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in defence field after ministers from both the countries were given a comprehensive review of cooperation between the two states, particularly the ongoing defence industry projects.

Federal Minister for Defence Production Rana Tanveer Hussain and Minister for National Defence of Turkey Nurettin Canikli met in Ankara on Friday and agreed to increase mutual contact and exchange of visits to realise the full potential in defence collaboration and identifying new projects.

Expressing satisfaction at the flourishing relationship between Pakistan and Turkey, the two ministers vowed to further deepen and broaden the cooperation. They noted that the growing level of bilateral cooperation was consistent with the vision of the leaders on both sides.

Mr Tanveer told his Turkish counterpart that defence industries of both countries had significant capacities, capabilities and a closer mutual collaboration would help them realise their full potential. He hoped that both countries would explore further possibilities of joint ventures and co-production. “The brotherly relations between Pakistan and Turkey are deeply rooted in history,” said Mr Canikli, adding that the brotherhood was reflected in all level of the relationship. He stressed on the need for collaboration on developing critical technologies to meet contemporary challenges.

Ambassador of Pakistan in Turkey Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi, the managing director of the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works, Rear Admiral Syed Hasan Nasir Shah, and senior officials of the Turkish defence industries were also present at the meeting.

Earlier, upon his arrival at the National Defence Ministry, a contingent of the Turkish Armed Forces presented guard of honour to the visiting minister.

Published in Dawn, November 25th, 2017