Türkiye Backs Stability Plan as PM Calls for Global Action to Curb Terror

ISLAMABAD: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed Ankara’s readiness to contribute to a mechanism aimed at maintaining stability amid an extended ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged the international community to press the Afghan Taliban to meet their international obligations and curb militant groups operating from Afghan soil.

The assurance from President Erdogan came during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz on the sidelines of an international forum held in Turkmenistan on Friday. The forum marked the International Year of Peace and Trust 2025, the International Day of Neutrality and the anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality. During the visit, the prime minister also held meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon and Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov, in addition to informal interactions with several leaders.

Addressing the forum, PM Shehbaz described peaceful dispute resolution as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy. He highlighted Pakistan’s support for the Gaza Peace Plan and its endorsement by the UN Security Council, noting that Pakistan had begun the year as a non-permanent member of the council and was actively working to promote international peace and security.

The prime minister warned that terrorism was again posing a serious challenge, “this time, unfortunately, from Afghan soil,” and called on the global community to ensure that the Taliban government honours its commitments to prevent militant activity. He thanked Qatar, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates for facilitating a ceasefire between Islamabad and Kabul, describing the arrangement as intact but fragile.

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PM Shehbaz also referred to the unanimous adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2788 earlier this year as an endorsement of Pakistan’s approach to peaceful conflict resolution. Turning to the Middle East, he expressed hope that ongoing diplomatic efforts would secure a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, ensure humanitarian access and support post-conflict reconstruction. He reiterated Pakistan’s support for the right to self-determination of the Palestinian and Kashmiri peoples.

Linking peace with development, the prime minister said sustainable development was essential for long-term stability. He cited progress in financial inclusion and women’s economic participation, while noting challenges posed by climate change and unequal access to advanced technologies.

On the sidelines, PM Shehbaz met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, with both leaders acknowledging mutual support during periods of external aggression earlier this year. They discussed expanding trade, strengthening border security, improving connectivity and advancing projects such as the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul rail link. The Gaza situation and concerns over militancy from Afghanistan also featured in the talks.

In a separate meeting, President Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s desire to deepen cooperation with Pakistan in energy, defence, investment and regional connectivity. PM Shehbaz welcomed Turkish interest in Pakistan’s petroleum, energy and minerals sectors, underscoring the importance of closer bilateral and regional engagement.

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