Pakistani PM: Türkiye and Pakistan share 'two hearts of one soul'

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday described Türkiye's success as Pakistan's own and vice versa, pledging to deepen the "unique partnership" between the two nations during talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul.

Historic Brotherhood

Speaking at a joint news conference at the Vahdettin Palace following talks with Erdogan, Sharif thanked his host for the hospitality and cited Turkish poet Yunus Emre's verse, "A heart makes a good home for the friend." He said no words could better describe the relationship, noting that the friendship was forged through centuries of shared history, common faith and mutual sacrifice. Sharif recalled that Türkiye has stood by Pakistan during wars, earthquakes and floods, pointing to Erdogan's 2010 visit to flood-hit areas and first lady Emine Erdogan's support for victims. "This is why we proudly say Pakistan and Türkiye are two hearts of one soul," he said.

Economic Cooperation

The two leaders held comprehensive discussions on expanding trade and investment, with Sharif expressing satisfaction over growing momentum in bilateral economic ties. He said they reviewed concrete steps to achieve their $5 billion trade target, adding that the goodwill between the countries offered a unique opportunity to unlock the full potential of cooperation. "The decisions we have taken today will not remain words on paper," Sharif said. "They will translate into greater trade, stronger investment, deeper strategic cooperation and, above all, a better future for our peoples."

Regional Alignment

Sharif affirmed Pakistan's continued support for Türkiye's position regarding the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and expressed appreciation for Ankara's "principled and unwavering support" for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He said both leaders reaffirmed their belief that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only sustainable path to resolving disputes, thanking Türkiye for its support for Pakistan's peace efforts which culminated in the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum. Quoting the poet Rumi, he said, "The lamps are different, but the light is the same," adding that the people of both nations are guided by faith, compassion and unbreakable brotherhood.