Erdoğan, Sharif, Qatari Emir meet at Antalya forum to discuss Iran ceasefire, regional peace

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday discussed bilateral relations, ongoing Iran-Iran ceasefire negotiations, and regional and global issues. The two countries will continue taking steps to advance cooperation in many areas, particularly energy, trade, and defense, Erdoğan said during his meeting with Sharif on the margins of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

Pakistan's mediation role

Erdoğan noted that Türkiye has stood on the side of peace since the very first day of the conflict triggered by the attacks on Iran. He praised Pakistan's efforts and "success" in securing the ceasefire, adding that they would work to extend the ceasefire until peace is achieved in Iran. The recent crisis has revealed the need for a new regional security architecture built on solid foundations, the president said.

Regional coordination

He praised the close coordination among the foreign ministers of Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan as continuing during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. Stressing the importance of reinforcing the ceasefire in Gaza, Erdoğan said the chaos in the region should not delay the liberation of Palestine and the implementation of a two-state solution.

Pakistan support

He added that Pakistan's peace and prosperity are important for Türkiye and that Ankara's support for Islamabad in resolving its problems with its neighbors through dialogue will always continue.

Trilateral meeting with Qatar

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, also attended the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, held under the theme "Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties" in Antalya, Türkiye on April 17, 2026. The three leaders discussed possible joint steps to achieve lasting and sustainable peace throughout the region.

Qatar's role

Qatar has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts alongside Türkiye and Pakistan. The Qatari Emir's presence at the forum underscores Doha's commitment to regional stability. Qatar previously mediated, along with Egypt and Türkiye, the Gaza ceasefire agreement that took effect on Oct. 10, 2025, and has been involved in discussions regarding the Gaza Administrative Committee.

Ceasefire context

The discussions come amid a two-week US-Iran ceasefire mediated by Pakistan, and a separate 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire that took effect Friday. Erdoğan has previously stated that unlawful attacks on Iran increased regional security risks, and that Türkiye will intensify efforts to preserve the ceasefire.

Antalya Diplomacy Forum

The fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum, held under the auspices of President Erdoğan and hosted by the Turkish Foreign Ministry, runs through Sunday with participation from over 20 heads of state and government and more than 150 countries.