Pakistan President with Turkish President

President Asif Ali Zardari and President of Turkey Mr. Abdullah Gül exchanging views during their meeting at Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel Istanbul,  on 24 December 2010 

Pakistani President with Turkish Prime Minister

President Asif Ali Zardari being received by the Turkish Prime Minster Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan before their meeting at Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel Istanbul,  on 24 December 2010 

Trilateral protocol on police cooperation

Pakistan's Minister for Interior Mr. Rehman Malik alongiwth Interior Ministers of Afghanistan and Turkey signing a protocol on "the Establishment of a Trilateral Police Cooperation Programme in particular on Combating Drugs Trafficking between Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan" at Istanbul on 24 December 2010.

Trilater MoU on Disaster Management

Pakistan's Ambassador to Turkey H.E. Tariq Azizuddin alongwith heads of relevent organizations of Afghanistan and Turkey signing a MoU on "Disaster Management between Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan" at Istanbul on 24 December 2010.

Trilateral protocol on establishment of audio video conference communication

Foreign Ministers of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Turkey shaking hands after signing  Protocol on the “Establishment of Direct Audio-Video Conference Communication Line” between Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan on 24 December 2010.

LIST OF DOCUMENTS TO BE SIGNED DURING THE TRILATERAL SUMMIT 24 DECEMBER 2010

Agreements to be signed between Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey on 24 December 2010
1. Protocol on the “Establishment of Direct Audio-Video Conference Communication Line” between Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan
2. MoU on Disaster Management between Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan
3. Letter of Intent on Media Cooperation
4. Protocol on the Establishment of a Trilateral Police Cooperation Programme in particular on Combating Drugs Trafficking between Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan
5. Protocol on the Organization of Exhibitions regarding Cultural partnership between Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan

Statement by the President of at the 11th ECO Summit at Istanbul, 23 December 2010

Your Excellency Mr. Abdullah Gul,
President of the Republic of Turkey,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It gives me great pleasure to join you all at the 11th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization. 
I wish to convey to you warm greetings from the people of Pakistan.
I am grateful to the Government of the Republic of Turkey for the warm reception and generous hospitality extended to us in this beautiful and historic city.
Istanbul symbolizes our rich and common cultural heritage.
On behalf of the Pakistan delegation, and on my own behalf, I wish to congratulate my brother His Excellency President Abdullah Gul on assuming the chairmanship of the Summit.
I am confident that under his able guidance, this meeting will be a landmark success.
I wish also to convey our deep appreciation to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, for his able stewardship of the ECO, since the 10th Summit in Tehran.
Excellencies,
Pakistan remains deeply committed to the aims and objectives of ECO.  ECO brings us together to renew our partnership for comprehensive regional development and prosperity.
Our region is blessed with enormous resources.
We have vast human capital.
We have huge natural resources including hydro-carbons, minerals, agriculture and technology.
ECO represents our best hope to promote trade and economic linkages in our region.
With a shared sense of destiny, we must pool resources to harness the potential of the Asian century.
We have the capacity to collectively address our needs and be masters of our own destiny.
Excellencies,
Since its establishment, ECO has matured and progressed.
Vision 2015 developed five years ago, is a pragmatic roadmap. 
Since then, we have achieved a lot.
However, we still have a long way to go to exploit the true potential of our region.
Trans-regional development and economic integration is our core objective.
We need to fully operationalize the functional mechanisms of ECO. 
This includes, placing ECO Trade Agreement on Fast Track.  Pakistan has already signed and ratified ECOTA.  We have recently agreed with Turkey to operationalize this Agreement, bilaterally.
We encourage other members, who have not yet done so, to become parties to this Agreement.
Free trade is central to regional economic integration.
ECO Trade and Development Bank needs to be turned into a vibrant financial institution and a vehicle for project development.
We need to work together to protect our economies from the volatility of international markets and the protectionist and discriminatory policies.
In this context, our Central Banks and Planning Commissions have a central role.
We need to harmonize Standards including customs.
Excellencies,
Infrastructure and energy connectivity in our region should be one of our key goals.
Trade is possible only if we have infrastructure linkages and integrated border arrangements for trade facilitation.
One of the major achievements of ECO is the enforcement of the Transit Transport Framework Agreement (TTFA).
Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul train service and ECO Truck Caravan are commendable successes.
Pakistan is well positioned to provide trade and communication corridors through our territory and ports to our friends and partners.
We are ready to provide energy transport bridge and develop win-win scenarios.
Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline and TAPI gas pipeline projects should be seen in this context.
Development is our strategic priority.
Excellencies,
Afghanistan is an important country in the region.
We have a shared responsibility towards Afghanistan.
Pakistan is committed to working closely with the ECO member countries and the international community for stability, peace and development in Afghanistan.
Pakistan has been in the forefront of ECO’s efforts for the reconstruction of Afghanistan.
Before concluding, I wish to make the following suggestions:
1.     To realize the dream of creating an ECO Free Trade Area all members may operationalize ECO Trade Agreement.
2.     Infrastructure and energy connectivity should be our strategic priority.
3.     We may identify joint projects for trans-regional development.
4.     The Heads of our Central Banks and Planning Departments may meet and suggest measures to protect our economies from global economic recession and volatility of international markets by suggesting innovative solutions.
5.     We may attach priority attention to people-to-people contacts and establishing linkages between our universities, academia, think tanks and media organizations.  We may collectively project and promote our common cultural heritage.
I would like to reiterate Pakistan’s commitment to the goals and objectives of the ECO.  We wish every success to our brotherly country, Turkey, as the new Chairman.
Thank you.

Pakistan President with Turkish Prime Minister

President Asif Ali Zardari being received by the Turkish Prime
Minister Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan at Dolmabahce Palace Istanbul on 22
December 2010. Mr. Erdogan hosted dinner for the heads of state/government attending the 11th ECO Summit at Istanbul.

Pakistani President meeting with the Tajik President

President Asif Ali Zardari during meeting with the Tajik President Mr. Emomali Rakhmon on the eve of 11th ECO Summit in Istanbul on 22 December 2010

President Zardari meets with President Roza of Kyrgyzsttan

ISTANBUL, Dec.22 (APP): President Asif Ali Zadari Wednesday said that
the democratic government of Pakistan has given new impetus to its
relations with Kyrgyzstan and called for more work together to improve
the working and implementation of the quadripartite Agreement on
Transit Traffic.
The President was talking to the Kyrgyzstan President Roza Otunbayeva
who called on him here on Wednesday  at the sidelines of the  Economic
Cooperation Organizagtion (ECO)  meeting. He said that the ECO is a
useful forum and need to further strengthen it.
The two leaders discussed bilateral and regional issues of mutual
interest with particular focus on trade and economic relations and
cooperation in diverse fields.
         The President congratulated the President of Kyrgyzstan
republic on successful holding of elections and formation of new
government. The President said that Pakistan attaches great importance
to taking further steps for strengthening bilateral relations with
Kyrgyzstan.
President Zardari told his Kyrgyz counterpart that both the
countries should enhance connectivity and create the institutional
framework as well as infrastructure for promoting trade.
The President greatly appreciated the support of the Kyrgyzstan
government in ensuring the protection of Pakistani students in their
country.
Both the leaders expressed satisfaction over holding of the 11th ECO
Summit and efforts of the socio-economic progress and prosperity of
the region and for their people.
President Zardari invited the Kyrgyz President to visit Pakistan at
the earliest opportunity.
 Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister for Defence
Ch. Ahmed Mukhtar, Interior Minister Rehman Malik, Chairman Board of
Investment , Ahmed Mandiwala and senior officials were present during
the meeting.
APP/mik

Speech of Foreign Minister of Pakistan at the 19th Council of Ministers Meeting of ECO on 22 December 2010

Your excellency Prof. Ahmet Davotoglu, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Turkey
Mr. Yahya Maroofi, Secretary General of ECO
Excellencies
Distinguished delegates
Ladies and Gentlemen
It is a matetr of great honour and privilege for me to represent Pakistan at the 19th ECO Council of Ministers meeting in this historic city of Istanbul.
I would first like to avail myself of this opportunity ot convey, on behalf of the Pakistan delegation, and on my own behalf, our gratitute to the Government of Republic of Turkey for hosting the Summit and extending warm reception and generous hospitality to us.
Pakistan-Turkey friendship is time tested adn unique. Our brotherhood is based on centureis old bonds of history, culture, faith, and traditions. We always have a special place for each other in our hearts.
The cultural and spiritual links between our two peoples are abiding as they are deep. Maulana Rumi and Allama Iqbal epitomize the essence of our mystical and philosophical traditions. They are eternal symbols of our glorious past.
I am pleased to re-visit Istanbul, the beautiful, cultural and commercial capital of Turkey. A city that truly reflects the grandeur of our rich and common history and our collective heritage. Thus, an appropriate venue for the 11th ECO Summit.
I would like to extend my warmest felicitations to you, my brother and friend, Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, on your assumption of the charimanship of this Council of Ministers. We are confident that under your able and experienced leadership this meeting will be a great success.
May I also express our deep appreciation to my Iranian colleague for steering this body with distinction for the past year.
Our appreciation is also due to His Excellency M.r Yahya Maroofi, Secretary General of ECO and his team from the Secretariat for successfully organizing this important event.
Excellencies
The theme of this Summit is of great importance. Five years ago, we agreed on Vision 2015. It charted out a pragmatic roadmap for this next ten years. This is therefore, an appropriateoccassion for mid-term review and stock taking.
While we take a great deal of satisfaction in having achieved substantial results, we are still far from realizing the lofty objectives of an integrated, inter-conected and prosperous region.
Excellencies
The ECO member States share many commonalities, which bind us all into a cohesive fraternity. We are heirs of a rich cultural heritage. Our region is equally rich in resources, both human and material.
As one of the founding members of the ECO, Pakistan firmly believes that this important Organization has great potential for contributing to the achievement of economic progress adn prosperity of in the ECO region. Our commitment to the goals and objectives of the ECO stems from this very strong conviction.
It is a matter of great satisfaction to note that the ECO has emerged as a dynamic organization with the passage of time. It is characterized by a strong institutional framework, an active interaction with other regional and global bodies and an all-eocompassing agenda.
Excellencies
Ladies and Gentlemen
Global peace, stability and prosperity are indivisible. The global effects of economic and financial turmoil are not far behind us. We need to devise mechanisms to effectively respond to comtemporary challenges with enthusiasm and dedication.
The global financial crisis has not been the sole setback. There is a plethora of challenges threatening the region. Terrorism, drug-trafficking, trans-national organized crime and natural disasters are undermining our efforts to contribute to the economic progress and presperity of the people. This calls for innovative approaches and focused attention on socio-economic development.
Excellencies
It is our primary responsibility to make the Secretariat as strong and as viable as possible so that its capacity to deliver in an efficient manner does not get adversely affectely. My delegation, therefore, urges all member states to make timely contributions towards its budget.
One of the fundamental objectives of the ECO is to ensure liberalization of trade through lowering trade barriers. The ECO Trade Agreement (ECOTA), therefore, remains at the heart of ECO's ambitions to establish within the region, a free trade area by 2015. The ECO Vision 2015 justifiably accords it the top priority. The Agreement has the potential to create vast opportunities for the economic uplift of our peoples. Together with the Transit Transport Framework Agreement (TTFA), it can prove to be the engine of growth in the region.
I am happy to report that Pakistan and Turkey have agreed to implement ECOTA bilaterally. We are also pleased that Afghanistan too has conveyed the Positive, Negative adn Sensitive lists in the context of ECOTA. We are hopeful that the other signatories would also provide the necessary Lists at na early date so that this important Agreement is implemented in the near future. At the same time, Pakistan strongly urges the non-Signatories to join this Agreement.
What trade is to prosperity in the region, connectivity is to trade. The development of an efficient and modern transportation and communication network among the ECO member States is an important factor in the exapansion of trade and socio-economic intergration. Pakistan welcomes the commencement of the ECO Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul Container Train which had its inaugural run in August last year.
The recent launch of the ECO Silk Road Truck Carvan is a very important milestone avhieved by the Organization. This linkage would not only help boost trade, but also serve as an effective vehicle to increase  people to people contacts and promote tourism among the member countries. We hope that this Carvan, like the ECO Container Train would be able to start its regular run in the near future.
The existance of trade, transit and transport corridors across the region will guarantee economic development and the prosperity of our people.
Ladies and gentlemen
It is heartening to note that the ECO Trade and Development Bank has started its operations. A Representative Office has been opened in Pakistan. We are confident that this project iin tandem with the ECO Reinsurance Company, the latter when esta blished, will play a crucial role in providing the necessary financial security to the business community of the ECO region. We request the remaining signatories to complete the necessary formalities fo rratificatin of the Articles of Agreement for the establishemnt of the Re-insurance Company at an early date. I would invite the remaining member States to join this project.
One of the objectives of the ECO, as stipulated in the Treaty of Izmir, is to enhance efforts for effective utilization of the agricultural potentials of the region. Vision 2015 also envisages food and security for the region. The agriculture sector is of immense importace for the ECO member States, as it plays a key role in employent, exports, food security and provision of raw materials. It, therefore, requires greater attention.
Conservation of water in the face of higher growth rates in developing countries demands our full attentionn at teh regional level. The ECO Centre for Efficient Utilization of Water should go a long way to serve as a regional resource hub for addressing water related issues in our region. I request all member States to actively support its early establishment in Pakistan.
Ladies and Gentlemen
Pakistan attaches great importance to science and and technology for the advancement of our countries. The Treaty of Izmin envisaged the establishment of ECO Science Foundation as a Specialized Agency of ECO. This foundation would not only function as a reservior of highly skilled scientific and technical manpower, but also facilitate promotion of scientific research among the member States.
Unfortunatly, this important Foundation has not been able to start functioning despite a lapse of many hears. However, we have recently made positive headway. The Base Documents of the Foundation have been finalized during the 2nd Experts Groups Meeting held in Tehran on 30-31 August 2010.
Pakistan will be hosting the 1st meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Foundationn in January 2011. This meeting will render the Foundation operational. On behalf of the Government of Pakistan, I would like to extend a cordial invitation to the Ministers of Science of Technology of the ECO member States to participate in this important meeting.
We welcome the establishment of the ECO Regionnal office on Development of Science and New Technologies in Almaty, Kazakhstan. An operational linkage would be established between these two institutions to make them more useful and result-oriented.
One of the unique strengths of the ECO region is its richness in mineral and engergy resources. This cumulative abundance of resources gives it an unparalleled advantage. Pakistan is keen to see proliferation of the infrastructure and energy projects in and across the ECO region.
Ladies and Gentlemen
Pakistan has been at the forefront of ECO's efforts for the reconstruction of our brotherly neighbour, Afghanistan. We have pledged a total of US $ 5 million, and have thus far remitted US$2million. We are pleased to note that a lot of reconstruction activities in Afghanistan are taking place under the umbrella of this Organization.
Excellencies
We have a vision for this region, the vision to see it transformed into a stable, peaceful, and prosperous area.
As a founding member of the ECO, Pakistan has always associated itself with the Organization's activities with a sincerity of purpose. We are optimistic that the ECO has the ability to move ahead, faster. I reiterate Pakistan's commitment to contribute optimally for an early and full realization of ECO's objectives. I wish the 19th Council of Ministers a great success.
I thank you all.

Pakistani President arrives in Turkey on Tuesday

ANKARA, December 21:  President of Pakistan H.E. Mr. Asif Ali Zardari will be arriving today in Turkey on a four days official visit to Turkey.
President Zardari will be leading Pakistan’s delegation to the 11th Summit Meeting of Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in Istanbul on 23 December 2010.
Mr. Zardari will also attend Afghanistan-Pakistan-Turkey trilateral Summit on 24th December alongwith President Hamid Karzai and President Abdullah Gul.

Speech by the Prime Minister Gilani at the Marmara University Istanbul

Honorable Prof.  Dr. Zafar Gul,
Rector Marmara University,
Excellencies,
Faculty members and students,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Honorary Doctorate in Journalism. It is indeed a great honour which I accepted in all humility.
I am deligted to be  included in the list of luminaires who have been awarded honorary doctorates by this great institution. My joy at receiving this honour has increased manifold since I came to know that this University is also the alma mater of my brother,  Prime Minister Erdogan.
This institution is renowned for its legacy of producing students who have created a prominent niche for themselves in society. I was very impressed to know that the faculty of economic and administrative sciences is taught in four languages, which makes it the only multi-lingual university in Turkey. With an impressive number of 3000 distinguished faculty members and a student body reaching 60,000 Marmara graduates are seeting new students in important fields like social sciences, engineering, medicine and humanities, and are fully equipped to take on the changing dynamics of the modern world.
Marmara University is unqiue in ecncourging research and scholarship for its students and faculty alike. Besides imparting quality education, it has enabled an environment of understanding and cooperation between peoples and cultures.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Knowledge and innovation are the basic tools for progress and development. These tools are best acquired through education. Modern education is pivotal in propelling socio-economic development. It is equally essential to promote enlightened, tolerance and civic values for harmonious societies and communities.
Change is the only constant. Rapid change is transforming the world and our daily  lives. We must not only adopt to change but also be its proponents.
Excellencies,                                                        
In Pakistan we attach great importance to education. There is immense scope for establishing close cooperation between the academia and students of our two countries. We should establish collaboration between our major universities and Marmara University for exchange of students and faculty.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Pakistan and Turkey relations are very special. The spontaneous mutual love and affection that is so instructive between our peoples is very unique. It cannot be defined in usual terms of interests or experiences. It is a true sense of brotherhood. It is, as if we are a single family. We value these very special relations and will take them to even greater heights.
I wish to state with a deep sense of satisfaction that my current visit to Turkey has been very productive. I am confident to say that we are well set on the way to translating our goals of shared prosperity and cooperation into concrete reality.
Excellencies,
This singular honor bestowed upon me this afternoon is also a testment to the strong fraternal bonds between our nations. This people driven relationship has withstood the tests of time.
May I take this occasion to wish the Marmara University a great future.
Long live Pakistan-Turkey friendship
Istanbul , December 08, 2010

Joint Declaration on Enhancing Pak-Turkey Partnership

Reaffirming the deep bonds of friendship, brotherhood and amity that exist between the peoples of Pakistan and Turkey;

Acknowledging that these ties are deeply rooted in shared history, heritage, culture and civilization;

Reaffirming the unique and special character of Pakistan-Turkey relations;

Recalling the Joint Political Declaration on Intensified Cooperation and the establishment of the High Level Cooperation Council (HLCC) (October 2009) and Joint Press Statement on Pakistan-Turkey Special Relations (April 2010);

Affirming that Pakistan and Turkey will always stand by each other in safeguarding and advancing their core national interests and promoting peace and prosperity at the regional and global planes;

Acknowledging, with gratitude, Turkey’s generous assistance to Pakistan in the wake of the floods calamity;

Reiterating their mutual desire to transform relations between Pakistan and Turkey into an enhanced 21st century partnership in the political, security, economic and cultural domains;

Expressing satisfaction at the progress achieved thus far;

Realizing the vast untapped economic potential of the partnership, and the strong desire of the two sides to optimally utilize their abundant talent, human, technological and other resources for mutual good and shared prosperity;

Stressing that the HLCC allows Turkey and Pakistan to fully explore and build upon shared interests, maximize cooperation on mutual priorities, and reinforce the already profound and unique relationship between the peoples of Turkey and Pakistan,

We, as the co-chairs of the inaugural meeting of the Turkey-Pakistan High Level Cooperation Council held in Ankara on 7th December 2010 with the participation of

- H.E. Cemil Cicek, Deputy Prime Minister and State Minister, H.E. Mehmet Aydin, State Minister, H.E. Vecdi Gonul, Minister of National Defense, H.E. Ahmet Davutoglu, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Taner Yildiz, Minister of Energy and Natural Rescours.

- H.E. Makhdoom Amin Fahim, Minister for Commerce, H.E. Chaudhry Ahmed Mukhtar, Minister for Defence, H.E. Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Recourses, Haji Ghulam Ahmad Bilour, Minister for Railways, H.E. Raja Parvez Ashraf, Minister for Water and Power, H.E. Salim H. Mandiwala, Minister of State/Chairman Board of Investment,

- Members of Parliaments as well as other prominent dignitaries and officials,

Agreed as follows:

Political Cooperation

• Utilize the High Level Cooperation Council as a vehicle to achieve the objective of enhanced comprehensive partnership;

• Hold regular sessions of the HLCC to promote all round cooperation, ensure effective follow up and implementation in a measurable and time-bound framework;

• Intensify exchanges at the leadership level as well as among Parliamentarians, journalists, civil society representatives and business leaders;

• Enhance political coordination at the regional and international for a;

• Hold regular consultations between respective Foreign Ministries, including on policy planning;

Security and Defence Cooperation

• Make full use of the existing bilateral structures and documents on security and military cooperation including the fields of military exchanges, training, joint exercises and collaboration in defence production and research and development;

Economic and Trade Cooperation

• Establish a framework for enhancing economic and trade cooperation for establishing a mutually-beneficial partnership for shared prosperity;

• Upgrade financial and banking sector cooperation; regular consultations between their respective Central Bank Governors; opening of bank branches and currency swap arrangements;

• Adopt measures for investment facilitation; promotion of joint ventures for the development of infrastructure and in the fields of energy, agriculture, industry and facilitation of corporate sector interaction;

• Initiate steps to achieve the target of US$ 2 billion trade by 2012. In this context, to consider establishing trade facilitation mechanisms, including customs cooperation and free trade arrangements.

• Undertake connectivity projects to upgrade communications and transport, including Islamabad-Istanbul rail link and regular cargo service; air links including increasing the frequency and destinations of flights; and maritime cooperation and shipping links;

• Consider establishing Pakistan-Turkey Joint Investment Company;

• Enhance cooperation in science and technology, in particular for undertaking research and development in high technology and its industrial application. In this regard, consider establishing a Special Joint Science & Technology Fund;

• Enhance cooperation in the energy sector in a comprehensive manner, including hydel and renewable sources of energy.

• Undertake programmes for the joint development of tourism, including hotel industry;

Education, Culture and Tourism cooperation

• Enhance cooperation in the education sector; facilitate students and youth exchanges;

• Promote the learning of Turkish and Urdu languages;

• Establish links between the academia and institutes of higher learning and think tanks;
• Jointly promote cooperation in the fields of art and culture; research and publications about civilizational links and heritage;

• Encourage programmes of cooperation between culture-related institutions and to organize events, including performing arts;

Implementation modalities

- Mechanisms established by the Memorandum of understanding in the field of Planning between the Government of the Republic of Turkey and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan shall be operationalized to consider and identify projects for cooperation in the field of planning.

- Also agree to establish the following Joint Working Groups to develop the envisaged Frameworks of Cooperation, specific programmes and projects:

1. Finance and Banking

2. Trade

3. Railways and Communications;

4. Energy

5. Education

6. Culture and Tourism

- The Joint Working Groups will submit their reports and recommendations to the High Level Cooperation Council through the Ministries concerned.

- An ad-hoc Joint Task Force will be established to conduct a comprehensive review of the bilateral documents and legal framework/arrangements in order to identify potential shortfalls, overlaps and areas for further improvement and offer specific proposals. The Joint Task Force will be coordinated by the respective Ministries of Foreign Affairs and modalities of their work shall be decided through diplomatic channels. Proposals of the Joint Task Force shall be submitted to the approval of the HLCC

During the inaugural session of the HLCC MoUs/agreements on cooperation in various fields were signed.

The next meeting of the Turkey-Pakistan High Level Cooperation Council shall be held in Islamabad in 2011. The date shall be agreed upon through diplomatic channels.

Done in Ankara 7 December 2010 in English and Turkish languages, both texts being equally authentic.

Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani                                        
Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Prime Minister of the Republic of  Turkey

OPENING REMARKS BY PRIME MINISTER YUSUF RAZA GILANI AT THE JOINT PRESS CONFERENCE WITH THE TURKISH PRIME MINSTER

OPENING REMARKS BY PRIME MINISTER YUSUF RAZA GILANI AT THE JOINT PRESS CONFERENCE WITH THE TURKISH PRIME MINSTER


Ankara, 7th December, 2010

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and I have had excellent discussions, which were marked by unanimity of views on all issues of mutual interest and concern.

We greatly value our brotherly relations and partnership with Turkey which is deeply rooted in our common history, culture and shared faith.

I am happy that we have had a very useful inaugural session of the High Level Cooperation Council (HLCC), which would help to steer our unique partnership to ever greater heights. We are determined to further boost our relations in the fields of economy, trade, investment, agriculture, industry, defence and people to people contacts.

We have placed special focus on re-energizing our trade and economic relations in a comprehensive manner. Our strategic economic partnership is sure to create win-win scenarios.

We will also give close attention to promoting cooperation in education. Also in the field of culture, tourism and people to people and parliamentary exchanges.

We also exchanged views on important regional and global issues.

The Pakistani nation is grateful to the Turkish nation for their efforts in sending generous aid for the flood affected people of Pakistan. We deeply value the visits of Prime Minister Erdogan and Madame Erdogan to Pakistan recently to show solidarity with the people of Pakistan.

I am convinced that the High Level Council will greatly contribute to give a new dimension to Pakistan-Turkey friendship and take our partnership to new heights.

------

Remarks of the Prime Minister of Pakistan on the visitors book at the Ataturk Mausoleum, Ankara

IT IS INDEED ONCE AGAIN AN HONOUR AND PRIVILEGE TO VISIT AND PAY HOMAGE TO THE GREATEST REVOLUTIONARY STATESMAN OF HISTORY AND FATHER OF REPUBLIC OF TURKEY  AT HIS MAUSOLEUM. MAY ATATURK’S IDEAL OF “PEACE AT HOME, PEACE IN THE WORLD” LEAD US IN OUR COLLECTIVE ENDEAVORS FOR UNVIERSAL PEACE AND BROTHERHOOD.

LONG LIVE PAKISTAN TURKEY BROTHERHOOD.

7TH DECEMBER 2010

MoUs being signed at Ankara between Pakistan and Turkey

A number of MOUs will be signed between Pakistan and Turkey after the meeting of the High Level Cooperation Council (HLCC) on December 07 at the Turkish Prime Minister’s Office in the presence of the two Prime Ministers.

The Prime Minister has desired that the Federal Ministers/Minister of State accompanying the Prime Minster may sign these agreements/MOUs on behalf of the government of Pakistan. List of the MOUs/Agreements and the signing Minister is given below:

Makhdoom Amin Fahim, Minister for Commerce

• MOU on Cooperation in the field of plant protection and quarantine;

• MOU on cooperation in the field of veterinary sciences;

• MOU on developing health strategic plans and health systems;

• MOU on supporting and maintaining post-disaster health services;


Chaudhry Ahmad Mukhtar, Minister for Defence

• MOU in the field of maritime cooperation;

• MOU in the field of communication and information technologies and postal communications;

• MOU on Cooperation in the field of housing;


Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources

• MOU on cooperation in the field of education;

• MOU on cooperation between Pakistan Television Corporation and Turkish Radio Television Corporation


Haji Ghulam Ahmed Bilor, Minister for Railways


• MOU on providing patient treatment in Turkey and establishment of sister hospitals;

• Protocol on the 4th meeting of the Turkey-Pakistan Joint Commission on Tourism;


Raja Pervez Ashraf, Minister for Water and Power

• MOU on training of health personnel by joint programmes;

• MOU on maternal child health and reducing maternal child mortality;

• Protocol on establishing mechanism for regular consultations on contracting and consulting engineering services;



Mr. Saleem Mandviwala, Minister of State/Chairman, Board of Investment


• MOU on cooperation in the field of youth

• MOU in the field of housing and construction

Prime Minister Gilani address to Turkish Grand National Assembly

ADDRESS BY SYED YUSUF RAZA GILANI, PRIME MINISTER OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN

TO THE TURKISH GRAND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

7TH DECEMBER 2010

Honourable Mehmet Ali Sahin ( pronounced as: Shaheen), Speaker

of the Turkish Grand National Assembly

H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdogan (pronounced as: Rajab Tayyab Erdo aan),

Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey

Distinguished Members of the Turkish Grand National Assembly,

Assalam-o-Alaikum,

I feel honoured and privileged to address this august house today. The Turkish Grand National Assembly
since its inauguration 90 years ago has been a symbol of modern Turkey’s path to greatness. This elegant building and its distinguished occupants embody the hopes and aspirations of 72 million proud Turkish people.

As an elected representative myself, I fully recognize the importance of today’s historic event and gratefully acknowledge this special honour bestowed upon me.

Mr. Speaker,

I am equally grateful to His Excellency President Abdullah Gul and the government of Turkey for conferment of the prestigious ‘Jumhuriyet Nishan’. I feel honoured to receive this award.

I have come to Turkey at a time when my country has been hit by a natural calamity of an unprecedented scale. The worst floods in our history have affected over 20 million Pakistanis.

Mr. Speaker,

In this tragic disaster, our resolve was strengthened, our spirits were lifted and our hopes were revived by the extra ordinary solidarity, support and generosity shown by the people of Turkey.

The warm feelings of amity and concern were expressed across the length and breadth of Turkey. From the Turkish children to the highest leadership; from the young student from Konya who donated her doll and her entire pocket money to the retired old man who gave away his entire pension. We were touched.

Heart warming episodes have etched an indelible mark in our memories. They are yet another confirmation of the special relations between our two people. I, therefore, stand here today overwhelmed. Mr. Speaker, through you and this august house I wish to convey to the people of Turkey, sincere thanks and profound gratitude of the entire Pakistani nation.

Mr. Speaker,

Turkish civilizational imprint runs deep. From the heartland of Europe to the Steppes of Central Asia. From the banks of the Indus to the deserts of Arabia, Turkish culture and customs, languages and literature, ideas and ethos have defined golden eras. Turkish people and civilization has contributed immensely to mankind’s march across new frontiers of thought and action, new vistas of spirituality and science. Since time immemorial the great Turkish people have made great conquests, founded grand empires and scored historic achievements in every field of human endeavour.

Our cultures and civilizations have germinated from centuries of intense mutually enriching interplay. We are proud heirs to a profound common heritage.

No wonder then that Pakistan-Turkey relations are so special. It is a relationship predating our modern States, an affinity transcending generations. Our people’s affection for Turkey is spontaneous, their love, deep and sincere. Words perhaps can do scant justice to this mutual affinity and abiding affection, integral to our identity and existence.

There may be a distance of thousand miles between Jinnah Jadesi in Ankara and Ataturk Avenue in Islamabad, but there are no spaces between our hearts. We are One Nation living in Two States.

The resonance of Prime Minister Erdogan’s address to Pakistan parliament last year is still fresh in our minds. Mr. Prime Minister as you had mentioned at that time, we also value these time tested bonds and the extensive cooperation which we have in the fields of trade, commerce, defence and security, energy, infrastructure development, education and culture.

Pakistan wishes to take these relations to an even higher plane. We aim to transform our special relations with Turkey into an enhanced twenty-first century partnership in the political, security, economic and cultural domains.

I look forward to co-chairing with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan the inaugural session of the High Level Cooperation Council (HLCC) this evening. I am confident the HLCC will prove an effective forum to achieve our shared objective.

The first meeting of the HLCC will focus on giving a fresh impetus to our economic relations and translate our excellent political relations into more tangible gains in the trade, investment and commercial fields for mutual benefit of our people. I am confident that we shall far exceed the target of two billion dollars bilateral trade by 2012, the target set by Prime Minister Erdogan and myself last year.

Mr. Speaker,

The collaboration between our two Parliaments is also vital for our two democracies. There is, therefore, a need to intensify cooperation through regular exchange of parliamentary delegations. Here, I would especially like to acknowledge the excellent role played by the strong Pakistan-Turkey Parliamentary Friendship Group led by energetic Mr. Burhan Kayaturk for forging closer linkages between our two Parliaments.

Mr. Speaker,

I congratulate Turkey for embarking upon a comprehensive constitutional reform process for strengthening its democratic institutions. I admire the Turkish leadership for evolving a national consensus on this important issue.

We also greatly admire the spectacular achievements made by Turkey under the dynamic leadership of President Gul and Prime Minister Erdogan. We are indeed proud that Turkey today stands tall in the global arena and is widely respected for its valuable contributions to regional and global peace and development. We in Pakistan rejoice in your successes. We regard your strength as our strength.

In Pakistan also, my government, through a landmark Constitutional Amendment Bill which enjoyed support of all political parties represented in the parliament, has started a reform process in accordance with the priorities and aspirations of the people of Pakistan. The supremacy of the Parliament has been restored.

We remain committed to the ideals of democracy, freedom of expression and protection of fundamental human rights, and the creation of a just welfare society as envisioned by our founding fathers.

Mr. Speaker,

Pakistan’s strategic priority is of course socioeconomic development. We have undertaken a process of far reaching economic reforms. We are also engaged in promoting intra-regional and trans-regional development cooperation. The central theme of that runs through our foreign policy. Indeed the format of the HLCC is to develop win-win scenarios and strong economic and trade partnerships with Turkey.

I look forward to my meetings with the Turkish business community in Istanbul to explore trade and investment opportunities and to discuss strengthening of economic relations.

Mr. Speaker,

Pakistan is today facing the threat of terrorism and extremism. Our citizens and valiant soldiers have rendered countless sacrifices in this fight against terrorism. Even our leader and former Prime Minister late Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto lost her life in a senseless terrorist act. She was a brave woman who never flinched in her struggle against these obscure and evil forces. She said and I quote:

“We are prepared to risk our lives, but we are not prepared to surrender this great nation to militants”

Terrorism is a phenomenon that knows neither faith nor frontier. In our region, it has roots in the cold war dynamics of the last century. Its reach is both global and regional. No State can address the menace alone. Nor will military means suffice. Confronting it requires a concerted, comprehensive and coordinated approach by the international community.


Mr. Speaker,


The Islamic world which was once known and admired for its achievements is today confronted with numerous challenges. Together, we need to embark on a journey of Renaissance – a journey for socioeconomic uplift of our masses.

Mr. Speaker,

The people of Pakistan and Turkey have stood shoulder to shoulder since their existence. We have taken united stand in our independence struggles and have helped each other whenever natural catastrophes have befallen on our countries. We rejoice in our successes and share our sorrows.

The spiritual bond between Maulana Rum and Allama Iqbal epitomizes the essence of our relationship. It is said that the Allama did not choose Rumi as his Master. It was the Master who chose the disciple.

These two great thinkers who lived centuries apart, shared a common thread of spiritualism. Rumi lived at a time when the Muslim world was traumatized by Mongols while Iqbal witnessed the awakening of colonized masses.

The essence of their message was identical: Learn to see and think in a new way. A timeless prescription for rebirth and renewal; an elixir for our times.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to end with a verse from Iqbal who was the spiritual heir in many ways to Mevlana Rumi:


Fard qaim rabt-e- millat se hai tanha kuch nahi

Moj hai darya main berune darya kuch nahi

(we are strong as long as we are part of a nation, just like a wave which cannot survive out of ocean)


Thank you, Tashakkurlar.

Yashasin Pakistan-Turk Dostlou

Prime Minister Gilani Arrives in Turkey

ANKARA, 6 Dec: Prime Minister of Pakistan Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani arrived at Ankara’s Esenboğa International Airport this afternoon. Mr. Gilani was received by H.E. Mr. Mehmet Aydin, Turkish State Minister for Science and Technology.

This visit is especially significant as Prime Minister Gilani alongside Turkish Prime Minister H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdogan will inaugurate the High Level Cooperation Council. The visiting delegation includes Federal Ministers for Defence, Commerce, Water & Power, Petroleum & Natural Resources, Railways, and Chairman Board of Investment. The Cooperation Council provides a unique platform to chart a long-term strategic trajectory of our relations. 

Mr. Gilani will have the honour to address the Turkish Grand National Assembly. He will have meetings with President of the Republic Turkey H.E.  Abdullah Gül.

In recognition of Gilani’s services for promoting brotherly relations between the two countries, President of the Republic of Turkey will confer the award “Republic Order” (Cumhuriyet Nişan) in a special investiture ceremony.

Premier Gilani will interact with Turkish business community at Istanbul over a luncheon hosted by Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) of Turkey.

In a special convocation ceremony, Marmara University will award Honorary Doctorate degree in journalism to Prime Minister Gilani.

ENDS

Pakistan ratifies D-8 instrument of ratification on trade

ANKARA, December 4: The President of Pakistan signed instrument of ratification for D-8 Multilateral Agreement on Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters.  The original instrument was handed over to the Secretary General of D-8 by Pakistan Consul General in Istanbul on December 1, 2010.
The D-8 Group was established in 1997 at the initiative of the former Turkish Prime Minister Naecmettin Erbakan, to promote development cooperation among Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan and Turkey. The establishment of D-8 was announced officially through the Istanbul Declaration of Summit of Heads of State/Government on June 15, 1997.
D-8 member countries have a population of more than 961 million which represents almost 15% of the world population. Total trade among D-8 countries has grown from US$ 14.5 billion in 1999 to US$ 1.15 trillion in 2009.
Pakistan trade with D-8 countries accounts for 8.14% of its overall trade which is the highest as compared to the trade of other D-8 member states with members of the organization. 
ENDS

Pakistani Prime Minister due in Turkey next week

ANKARA, December 3:  Prime Minister of Pakistan Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani will pay a three day official visit to Turkey from 6 – 9 December.
The Prime Minister will meet the Turkish President H.E. Abdullah Gül.
Pakistani premier will co-chair the inaugural session of the High Level Cooperation Council (HLCC) with his Turkish counterpart H.E. Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara. The HLCC provides a unique platform to give a long-term strategic direction to bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries of Pakistan and Turkey.
Mr. Gilani will have the honour to address the Turkish Grand National Assembly besides meetings with the Turkish leadership.
 In recognition of Gilani’s services for promoting brotherly relations between the two countries, President of the Republic of Turkey will confer the award “Republic Order” (Cumhuriyet Nişan) in a special investiture ceremony.
Premier Gilani will interact with Turkish business community at Istanbul over a luncheon hosted by Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) of Turkey.
In a special convocation ceremony, Marmara University will award Honorary Doctorate degree in journalism to Prime Minister Gilani.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to the furtherance of PakistanTurkey bilateral relations, Mr. Gilani will present the award of “Hilal-e-Pakistan” to Madame Emine Erdogan.

Büyükelçinin duygusal anları

Büyükelçinin duygusal anları
Afyonkarahisar'ın Sandıklı ilçesinde 'Sandıklı Anne ve Kızlarından Pakistan Anne ve Kızlarına' projesi kapsamında Sandıklılı kadınların elleri ile hazırladıkları giyecekler, düzenlenen törenle Pakistan Büyükelçisi Tarık Azizuddin'e teslim edildi.