Erdogan and Sharif Meet in Istanbul, Pledge Stronger Defence and Tech Ties After India-Pakistan

Erdogan, Sharif Reaffirm Bilateral Ties Amid Regional Unrest

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Istanbul on Sunday to reinforce bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors just weeks after military tensions escalated between India and Pakistan.

The high-level meeting focused on deepening collaboration in defence, technology, energy, transportation, and intelligence sharing, according to a statement from Erdogan’s office.

“Our partnership is rooted in brotherhood and shared values. Today’s dialogue strengthens our resolve for mutual progress,” Erdogan stated during the joint session. Al Jazeera

Post-Conflict Context: Timing Sends Strong Signal to India

The meeting follows renewed conflict between Islamabad and New Delhi, raising questions about regional stability. Though officials refrained from publicly referencing India, the timing and tone of the Istanbul dialogue signaled a clear message of solidarity between Turkiye and Pakistan.

The two countries have historically supported each other on key geopolitical issues — including Kashmir and Northern Cyprus — and Sunday’s talks further underlined their mutual alignment in regional affairs.

Defence and Intelligence Cooperation Take Center Stage

A primary focus of the discussions was enhanced defence cooperation, with both leaders exploring joint ventures in arms manufacturing and naval technology. Erdogan emphasized the role of intelligence sharing in counter-terrorism and regional security efforts.

“We are working toward a secure region through shared intelligence and strategic planning,” Shehbaz Sharif said.

Pakistan and Turkiye already collaborate through various defense deals, including military drone production, and have recently signed a memorandum of understanding on cybersecurity.

Expanding Technological and Educational Partnerships

Education and technology were also central to the bilateral agenda. President Erdogan announced plans to increase scholarships for Pakistani students in Turkish universities and to boost tech exchange programs through public-private partnerships.

Sharif expressed interest in replicating Turkish smart city models and transport systems in major Pakistani metros like Lahore and Karachi.

Energy and Infrastructure Investment Pledged

The leaders discussed energy diversification, with a focus on renewables and LNG infrastructure. Turkish firms are reportedly interested in participating in Pakistan’s power grid modernization, particularly in underserved rural regions.

Sharif also invited Turkish investors to support the expansion of Pakistan’s freight rail and port systems, aligning with CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) routes.

“This is a new era of economic diplomacy between our two nations,” Sharif remarked during the joint press briefing.