To say that Pakistan and Turkey have cordial relations, would be an understatement.
The affinity amongst the people of the two countries, nurtured by decades old cultural, religious and geo-political links is an almost unparalleled phenomenon in the history of bilateral relations between states.
There could not be a better exposition of the nature of relations between the two countries than the statements made by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and the visiting Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu while speaking on relations between the two countries.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif addressing the Pakistan-Turkey High Level Cooperation Council remarked that the two countries were indispensable partners working assiduously to promote peace and prosperity for their people and the region.
The Turkish Prime Minister said that the relations between the two countries were exemplary and there were no two countries who felt they had a common destiny like Pakistan and Turkey.
In his meeting with the COAS, the Turkish Prime Minister emphatically declared that Pakistan’s security was Turkish security and Pakistan’s flag was the Turkish flag and that Turkey would always stand by Pakistan.
The foregoing words uttered by the two leaders say it all.
What they said was beyond the realm of usual diplomatic niceties.
The two countries were unanimous on the need to make UNSC more representative, democratic, transparent, effective and accountable; the need to fight collectively against terrorism and countering the burgeoning Islam phobia in the West.
They also agreed to enhance bilateral trade to US $3 billion within the next two years besides signing 11 agreements and MOUs for cooperation in various fields.
The visit of the Turkish Prime Minister coming at a time when the region is undergoing radical transformation in its geo-political environment and Pakistan is in the midst of a decisive campaign to eliminate the scourge of terrorism, and is of great significance both from the perspective of bilateral relations between the two countries and with regards to forging a collective strategy to address security threats to the region and firming up responses to changed strategic realities.
Turkey is an important country of the region and a worthy military and economic power.
It has been taking keen interest in promoting peace in our region and bringing Pakistan and Afghanistan closer with a view to resolve the Afghan conundrum and building mutual trust between them.
It launched a trilateral summit process between Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan in February 2007 to pursue this objective and it was as a result of continued Turkish endeavours that some visible progress was made at the eighth trilateral Summit in Ankara in 2014.
The three countries agreed to enhance cooperation for regional security, stability and development.
Pakistan and Afghanistan broadly agreed to the proposition of managing the border between them to check the activities of terrorists.
In the backdrop of the ambience of mutual mistrust that had marred relations between the two countries, this marked a new beginning towards amity between them and a big boost to the chances of promoting peace in the region.
Before that Karzai had been accusing Pakistan of supporting and abetting attacks within Afghanistan and Pakistan also persistently complained of Afghan support for terrorist activities within Pakistani territory.
Another very significant outcome of the parleys was the commitment made by Karzai during a press conference addressed by the three leaders that Afghanistan would oust TTP leaders and their associates from Afghanistan.
The recent cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan in fighting terrorism is surely a continuation of the same understanding and persistent efforts of the Pakistan government to take the process to its logical end.
Turkey, like Pakistan, enjoys the trust of the Afghan people and its government and in collaboration with Pakistan can play a pivotal role in promoting intra-Afghan dialogue for reconciliation amongst different factions, especially the Taliban to restore peace in Afghanistan which would also go a long way in eliminating terrorism from the region.
Perhaps it would be pertinent to throw some light on the history of relations between the two countries.
The people of Pakistan and Turkey have strong love and respect for each other that dates back to the developments in the early twentieth century.
Both countries established diplomatic relations with each other soon after Pakistan became independent.
Pakistan and Turkey were partners in the CENTO and also along with Iran, founded a regional entity called RCD which later was re-incarnated as ECO.
Both are members of the Developing 8 Countries (D-8) and have been working together to negotiate preferential trading agreements.
Turkey and Pakistan have strong military relations and the former had been providing training to Pakistan Air Force officers in upgrading the F-16 fleet.
Military ties date back to 1954 when both countries joined CENTO.
Turkey has been a strong supporter of the Kashmir cause and has also been maintaining political and military support to Pakistan during its wars with India.
Pakistan has also vehemently expressed support for Turkey’s policy on Northern Cyprus.
Both countries are members of the OIC and aspirants for membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and have strong chances of being admitted to it in the near future.
Turkey has also extended generous help during the 2005 earthquake and the subsequent floods in Pakistan.
The strong and cooperative relations between Pakistan and Turkey are also very important with regards to fostering cooperative relations among Muslim countries as well as addressing issues of concern to Muslim nations at the global level such as blasphemy and growing xenophobia against Muslim communities.
In the backdrop of terrorism when there is a growing agreement for promoting interfaith harmony at the global level, the two countries can perhaps take a lead in initiating a move at the UN to have a resolution passed binding all nations to ensure respect for other religions and have the blasphemy issue included in the UN charter.
This is currently the biggest irritant in relations between Muslim countries and the West and the UN whose basic purpose is to promote peace and security ought to play its due role in bringing about amity between the two camps.
Courtesy: The Nation, 20 February 2015
TEXT OF JOINT DECLARATION ON STRENGHTENING PAKISTAN-TURKEY STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIP
2015-02-18)
Reaffirming the immutable bonds of common faith, shared history, cultural affinity and brotherhood between the peoples of Pakistan and Turkey;
Underscoring the unique and abiding character of Pakistan-Turkey relations, marked by exceptional mutual trust, understanding and goodwill;
Expressing profound satisfaction at the continued development and expansion of bilateral relations in the political, economic, security and cultural domains;
Reiterating the commitment to continue to transform the cordial bilateral relationship into a robust strategic partnership;
Emphasizing the common vision of the two countries for peace and development for their peoples and the region;
Reaffirming the resolve to fight extremism and terrorism in all forms and manifestations;
Strongly condemning the defamation campaign against the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the religion of Islam;
Stressing the need for respecting all religions and calling for criminalization of all acts of Islamophobia;
Reaffirming the commitment to continue efforts to promote better understanding and inter-faith harmony;
Endorsing the results of the meetings of the Joint Working Groups of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), held in Islamabad, on 16February 2015;
We, as the co-chairs of the 4th Meeting of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council, held in Islamabad, on 17 February 2015, with the participation of:
- H.E. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Idris Güllüce, Minister of Environment and Urbanization, H.E. Nihat Zeybekci, Minister of Economy, H.E. Taner Yıldız, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, H.E. Mehmet Müezzinoğlu, Minister of Health, H.E. Lütfi Elvan, Minister of Transport, Maritime Affairs and Communication,
- H.E. Mr. Sartaj Aziz, Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Khurram Dastgir Khan, Minister for Commerce, H.E. Mr. Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Minister of Finance,Revenue, Economic Affairs, Statistics and Privatizaion, H.E. Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Minister for Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage, H.E. Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, Minister of Planning, Development and Reforms, H.E. Mr. Kamran Michael, Minister for Ports and Shipping,H.E. Mr. Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Minister for Water and Power, H.E. Ms. Saira Afzal Tarar, Minister of State for National Health Services,
- Other prominent dignitaries and officials,
Underscoring the unique and abiding character of Pakistan-Turkey relations, marked by exceptional mutual trust, understanding and goodwill;
Expressing profound satisfaction at the continued development and expansion of bilateral relations in the political, economic, security and cultural domains;
Reiterating the commitment to continue to transform the cordial bilateral relationship into a robust strategic partnership;
Emphasizing the common vision of the two countries for peace and development for their peoples and the region;
Reaffirming the resolve to fight extremism and terrorism in all forms and manifestations;
Strongly condemning the defamation campaign against the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the religion of Islam;
Stressing the need for respecting all religions and calling for criminalization of all acts of Islamophobia;
Reaffirming the commitment to continue efforts to promote better understanding and inter-faith harmony;
Endorsing the results of the meetings of the Joint Working Groups of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), held in Islamabad, on 16February 2015;
We, as the co-chairs of the 4th Meeting of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council, held in Islamabad, on 17 February 2015, with the participation of:
- H.E. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Idris Güllüce, Minister of Environment and Urbanization, H.E. Nihat Zeybekci, Minister of Economy, H.E. Taner Yıldız, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, H.E. Mehmet Müezzinoğlu, Minister of Health, H.E. Lütfi Elvan, Minister of Transport, Maritime Affairs and Communication,
- H.E. Mr. Sartaj Aziz, Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Khurram Dastgir Khan, Minister for Commerce, H.E. Mr. Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Minister of Finance,Revenue, Economic Affairs, Statistics and Privatizaion, H.E. Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Minister for Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage, H.E. Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, Minister of Planning, Development and Reforms, H.E. Mr. Kamran Michael, Minister for Ports and Shipping,H.E. Mr. Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Minister for Water and Power, H.E. Ms. Saira Afzal Tarar, Minister of State for National Health Services,
- Other prominent dignitaries and officials,
Have decided as follows:
Political Cooperation
- The HLSCC shall continue to serve as the highest level political forum and provide strategic focus and direction to the relationship in all dimensions.
- The Joint Working Groups shall ensure effective implementation and follow-up of the decisions taken at the HLSCC meetings.
- Intensive exchanges shall be promoted at the leadership, parliamentary, business, cultural, civil society, media and people-to-people levels.
- The excellent mutual cooperation and collaboration in international organizations, particularly in the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Economic Cooperation Organization, as well as international initiatives such as Istanbul Process-Heart of Asia will be further enhanced and deepened, including extending support for our candidatures, coordinating policies and taking joint initiatives.
- Both sides agree on the need to make the United Nations Security Council more representative, democratic, transparent, effective and accountable, and that UNSC reform should be comprehensive and it should take place by widest consensus possible.
- The next annual consultations at the level of Foreign Ministers shall be held in Turkey, in 2015.
- The next Bilateral Political Consultations at the level of Foreign Secretaries shall be held in Islamabad, before the end of 2015.
Security and Defence Cooperation
- Cooperation in the fight against terrorism and extremism, organized crime and drug trafficking shall be further intensified.
- Bilateral cooperative endeavours, including police training, capacity-building, personnel exchanges and exchange of experience shall be further enhanced.
- In follow-up of the High Level Military Dialogue Group (HLMDG) meeting in Rawalpindi, in October 2014, both sides would intensify politico-military cooperation, while defence-related industries would focus on joint defence production and related research and development activities.
- Additional opportunities shall be pursued for intensified engagement including through joint exercises, increased defence personnel exchanges and defence dialogues.
Finance and Banking Cooperation
- Cooperation in the fields of finance and banking including insurance, capital market, anti-money laundering, budget, financial reporting and audit shall be enhanced.
Trade and Economic Cooperation
- Intensified trade and commercial cooperation matching the excellent political relationship would constitute a central priority. Concerted steps shall be taken for realizing the vast untapped potential for bilateral trade and commercial cooperation.
- Special emphasis shall be placed on further deepening the involvement of the private sector, enhancing business-to-business interface and facilitating transportation of merchandise.
- The two sides agreed to provide favorable investment climate to their respective investors.
- The next session of the Joint Business Council (JBC) shall be held in Turkey in first half of 2015, with both sides ensuring that the JBC’s activities fully reinforce the efforts for increased trade and investment promotion.
- The decisions of the 15th Session of Pakistan-Turkey Joint Ministerial Commission for Economic and Technical Cooperation (JEC), held in Ankara, in October 2014, shall be implemented with a view to providing further boost to trade and economic cooperation.
- Building upon their previous efforts and progress achieved for concluding a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), the two sides will consider to commence negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) covering trade in goods, services and investment after completing the compulsory and procedural requirements in both countries.
- The two sides shall also tap opportunities for enhanced cooperation through market access initiatives under regional organizations such as the OIC, D-8 and ECO.
Energy Cooperation
- Both sides express their willingness to improve energy cooperation – with focus on petroleum, natural gas, coal, hydroelectric, geo-thermal and renewable resources such as wind and solar power.
- Pakistan side invites Turkish companies to invest in energy sector projects in Pakistan, especially in the field of coal based power generation and power transmission sector.
- Both sides express their willingness for the Turkish Petroleum International Company (TPIC) to trade oil products to private and public companies of Pakistan under prevalent rules/policy.
Communications and Transportation Cooperation
- A meeting of Joint Road Transport Commission shall be organized during 2015 to finalize the modalities involved in enforcement of the Bilateral Road Transport Agreement.
- Efforts shall be expedited to provide capital to finance scheduled service of the ECO Container Train for the first six months (two service per month) as well as sales and marketing expenses in order to generate commercial cargo to sustain profitable operation of the train.
- Possibilities of Joint Ventures between Pakistan Railways and Turkish Railway Machinery Company, Turkish Wagon Industry and Turkish Locomotive Industry shall be explored.
- To enhance cooperation in maritime transportation, a joint meeting of Pakistani Port Authorities shall be organized and Turkish Port Authorities to discuss and formulate a detailed plan for development/establishment of Vessel Tracking System (VTS).
- With a view to strengthening the bilateral relations in the civil aviation sector, the two sides will hold a bilateral civil aviation meeting at the earliest convenience and consider a further increase in the frequencies of scheduled flights between the two countries.
- The two sides confirm their willingness to encourage cooperation in the field of information and communication technologies, broadband and postal services within the framework of equality, reciprocity and common interest in accordance with the legislation and regulations of each country.
- The Postal Authorities shall pursue collaboration in the fields of:
a. International and local remittance services between Turkey and Pakistan; and
b. Express and Logistic Services and E-commerce through Postal Network for enhancing cooperation in ICT-based postal services between the two countries.
Cultural and Tourism Cooperation
- The two sides shall support organizations which promote cultural events with the participation of cultural delegations, including art and art exhibitions, festivals, meetings and conferences.
- Joint research programmes shall be undertaken in the fields of archeology, conservation of monuments and archeological sites and museums.
- The two sides shall exchange publications and reports on recent research on archeological sites and museums.
- Visits of the delegations consisting of archeologists, museologistsand conservationists of monuments and archeological sites to the important historical sites, historical monuments, museums and conservation laboratories shall be exchanged.
- Cultural troupes shall be exchanged for performance in major cities of the two countries.
- The two sides shall expedite the process of establishment of their respective cultural centers.
- The two sides shall hold seminars on Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi on reciprocal basis.
- he two sides shall exchange documentaries to be shown on national Television Networks of Turkey and Pakistan on reciprocal basis for the promotion of culture and heritage.
- Visits of journalists, media representatives, film crews, tour operators, airway company representatives, opinion leaders etc. shall be encouraged to increase tourism demand in both countries.
- Both sides shall exchange information on investment opportunities in the field of Tourism.
- Both sides shall organize cultural activities mutually in 2015-2016 in accordance with internal procedures.
Education and Science Cooperation
- Student and faculty exchange programmes, institutional linkages between higher educational institutions in both countries and holding of Educational Expos shall be increased.
- The two sides will share experience on the establishment of TVET schools.
- The Turkish side shall provide Training of Trainers (Master Trainers) for general as well as Technical and Vocational Education.
- Sister School on General and Technical and Vocational Education will be declared for sharing experience through diplomatic channels.
- Both sides shall provide teachers, curriculum and training materials for introduction of Urdu and Turkish languages courses on reciprocal basis.
- The Parties shall endeavour to increase provision of scholarships for undergraduate, graduate (Master, PhD), research and language course levels each year in the fields that are needed in their respective countries within the limits of available means.
- Within the existing framework, cooperation shall be intensified in science, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and research & development through sharing of information, experience, joint R&D projects, seminars, conferences and mutual exchange of professionals in the agreed areas of mutual interest.
Agriculture Cooperation
- Cooperation in the field of food and agriculture shall be comprehensively upgraded.
- Both sides shall benefit from each other's experience and strengths in diverse sectors including agricultural research, plant and animal health and agricultural infrastructure and irrigation systems.
Follow-up
The six Joint Working Groups of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council shall continue their work to develop and implement specific programmes and projects.
The next meeting of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council shall be held in Ankara, in 2016. The dates shall be agreed upon through diplomatic channels.
Done on 17 February 2015, in Islamabad in English.
Muhammad Nawaz Sharif Ahmet Davutoğlu
Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey
of Pakistan
Political Cooperation
- The HLSCC shall continue to serve as the highest level political forum and provide strategic focus and direction to the relationship in all dimensions.
- The Joint Working Groups shall ensure effective implementation and follow-up of the decisions taken at the HLSCC meetings.
- Intensive exchanges shall be promoted at the leadership, parliamentary, business, cultural, civil society, media and people-to-people levels.
- The excellent mutual cooperation and collaboration in international organizations, particularly in the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Economic Cooperation Organization, as well as international initiatives such as Istanbul Process-Heart of Asia will be further enhanced and deepened, including extending support for our candidatures, coordinating policies and taking joint initiatives.
- Both sides agree on the need to make the United Nations Security Council more representative, democratic, transparent, effective and accountable, and that UNSC reform should be comprehensive and it should take place by widest consensus possible.
- The next annual consultations at the level of Foreign Ministers shall be held in Turkey, in 2015.
- The next Bilateral Political Consultations at the level of Foreign Secretaries shall be held in Islamabad, before the end of 2015.
Security and Defence Cooperation
- Cooperation in the fight against terrorism and extremism, organized crime and drug trafficking shall be further intensified.
- Bilateral cooperative endeavours, including police training, capacity-building, personnel exchanges and exchange of experience shall be further enhanced.
- In follow-up of the High Level Military Dialogue Group (HLMDG) meeting in Rawalpindi, in October 2014, both sides would intensify politico-military cooperation, while defence-related industries would focus on joint defence production and related research and development activities.
- Additional opportunities shall be pursued for intensified engagement including through joint exercises, increased defence personnel exchanges and defence dialogues.
Finance and Banking Cooperation
- Cooperation in the fields of finance and banking including insurance, capital market, anti-money laundering, budget, financial reporting and audit shall be enhanced.
Trade and Economic Cooperation
- Intensified trade and commercial cooperation matching the excellent political relationship would constitute a central priority. Concerted steps shall be taken for realizing the vast untapped potential for bilateral trade and commercial cooperation.
- Special emphasis shall be placed on further deepening the involvement of the private sector, enhancing business-to-business interface and facilitating transportation of merchandise.
- The two sides agreed to provide favorable investment climate to their respective investors.
- The next session of the Joint Business Council (JBC) shall be held in Turkey in first half of 2015, with both sides ensuring that the JBC’s activities fully reinforce the efforts for increased trade and investment promotion.
- The decisions of the 15th Session of Pakistan-Turkey Joint Ministerial Commission for Economic and Technical Cooperation (JEC), held in Ankara, in October 2014, shall be implemented with a view to providing further boost to trade and economic cooperation.
- Building upon their previous efforts and progress achieved for concluding a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), the two sides will consider to commence negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) covering trade in goods, services and investment after completing the compulsory and procedural requirements in both countries.
- The two sides shall also tap opportunities for enhanced cooperation through market access initiatives under regional organizations such as the OIC, D-8 and ECO.
Energy Cooperation
- Both sides express their willingness to improve energy cooperation – with focus on petroleum, natural gas, coal, hydroelectric, geo-thermal and renewable resources such as wind and solar power.
- Pakistan side invites Turkish companies to invest in energy sector projects in Pakistan, especially in the field of coal based power generation and power transmission sector.
- Both sides express their willingness for the Turkish Petroleum International Company (TPIC) to trade oil products to private and public companies of Pakistan under prevalent rules/policy.
Communications and Transportation Cooperation
- A meeting of Joint Road Transport Commission shall be organized during 2015 to finalize the modalities involved in enforcement of the Bilateral Road Transport Agreement.
- Efforts shall be expedited to provide capital to finance scheduled service of the ECO Container Train for the first six months (two service per month) as well as sales and marketing expenses in order to generate commercial cargo to sustain profitable operation of the train.
- Possibilities of Joint Ventures between Pakistan Railways and Turkish Railway Machinery Company, Turkish Wagon Industry and Turkish Locomotive Industry shall be explored.
- To enhance cooperation in maritime transportation, a joint meeting of Pakistani Port Authorities shall be organized and Turkish Port Authorities to discuss and formulate a detailed plan for development/establishment of Vessel Tracking System (VTS).
- With a view to strengthening the bilateral relations in the civil aviation sector, the two sides will hold a bilateral civil aviation meeting at the earliest convenience and consider a further increase in the frequencies of scheduled flights between the two countries.
- The two sides confirm their willingness to encourage cooperation in the field of information and communication technologies, broadband and postal services within the framework of equality, reciprocity and common interest in accordance with the legislation and regulations of each country.
- The Postal Authorities shall pursue collaboration in the fields of:
a. International and local remittance services between Turkey and Pakistan; and
b. Express and Logistic Services and E-commerce through Postal Network for enhancing cooperation in ICT-based postal services between the two countries.
Cultural and Tourism Cooperation
- The two sides shall support organizations which promote cultural events with the participation of cultural delegations, including art and art exhibitions, festivals, meetings and conferences.
- Joint research programmes shall be undertaken in the fields of archeology, conservation of monuments and archeological sites and museums.
- The two sides shall exchange publications and reports on recent research on archeological sites and museums.
- Visits of the delegations consisting of archeologists, museologistsand conservationists of monuments and archeological sites to the important historical sites, historical monuments, museums and conservation laboratories shall be exchanged.
- Cultural troupes shall be exchanged for performance in major cities of the two countries.
- The two sides shall expedite the process of establishment of their respective cultural centers.
- The two sides shall hold seminars on Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi on reciprocal basis.
- he two sides shall exchange documentaries to be shown on national Television Networks of Turkey and Pakistan on reciprocal basis for the promotion of culture and heritage.
- Visits of journalists, media representatives, film crews, tour operators, airway company representatives, opinion leaders etc. shall be encouraged to increase tourism demand in both countries.
- Both sides shall exchange information on investment opportunities in the field of Tourism.
- Both sides shall organize cultural activities mutually in 2015-2016 in accordance with internal procedures.
Education and Science Cooperation
- Student and faculty exchange programmes, institutional linkages between higher educational institutions in both countries and holding of Educational Expos shall be increased.
- The two sides will share experience on the establishment of TVET schools.
- The Turkish side shall provide Training of Trainers (Master Trainers) for general as well as Technical and Vocational Education.
- Sister School on General and Technical and Vocational Education will be declared for sharing experience through diplomatic channels.
- Both sides shall provide teachers, curriculum and training materials for introduction of Urdu and Turkish languages courses on reciprocal basis.
- The Parties shall endeavour to increase provision of scholarships for undergraduate, graduate (Master, PhD), research and language course levels each year in the fields that are needed in their respective countries within the limits of available means.
- Within the existing framework, cooperation shall be intensified in science, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and research & development through sharing of information, experience, joint R&D projects, seminars, conferences and mutual exchange of professionals in the agreed areas of mutual interest.
Agriculture Cooperation
- Cooperation in the field of food and agriculture shall be comprehensively upgraded.
- Both sides shall benefit from each other's experience and strengths in diverse sectors including agricultural research, plant and animal health and agricultural infrastructure and irrigation systems.
Follow-up
The six Joint Working Groups of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council shall continue their work to develop and implement specific programmes and projects.
The next meeting of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council shall be held in Ankara, in 2016. The dates shall be agreed upon through diplomatic channels.
Done on 17 February 2015, in Islamabad in English.
Muhammad Nawaz Sharif Ahmet Davutoğlu
Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey
of Pakistan
List of MoUs/Agreements signed during 4th HLSCC meeting on 17 February 2015 at Islamabad
1. Protocol of Cooperation between Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Ankara Chamber of Commerce.
2. Protocol of Cooperation between Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Ankara Chamber of Commerce.
3. Protocol of Cooperation between Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Kaysori Chamber of Commerce.
4. Executive Protocol for Scientific Cooperation between Pakistan Academy of Sciences and Turkish Academy of Sciences.
5. Agreement for Scientific Cooperation between Pakistan Academy of Sciences and Turkish Academy of Sciences.
6. Memorandum of Understanding between Turkish Accreditation Agency (TURKAK) and Pakistan National Accreditation Council.
7. Cooperation Protocol between Turkish Patent Institute (TPI) of Turkey and Intellectual Property Organization.
8. Memorandum of Understanding between Oil and Gas Development Company, Pakistan Petroleum Ltd and Turkish National Oil Company.
9. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Izmir Port of the Republic of Turkey and the Port of the Karachi Port Trust of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Sister Seaports relation and cooperation.
10. Additional Protocol to the agreement concerning the reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment.
11. Joint Declaration Strengthening Pakistan- Turkey Strategic Relationship.
2. Protocol of Cooperation between Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Ankara Chamber of Commerce.
3. Protocol of Cooperation between Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Kaysori Chamber of Commerce.
4. Executive Protocol for Scientific Cooperation between Pakistan Academy of Sciences and Turkish Academy of Sciences.
5. Agreement for Scientific Cooperation between Pakistan Academy of Sciences and Turkish Academy of Sciences.
6. Memorandum of Understanding between Turkish Accreditation Agency (TURKAK) and Pakistan National Accreditation Council.
7. Cooperation Protocol between Turkish Patent Institute (TPI) of Turkey and Intellectual Property Organization.
8. Memorandum of Understanding between Oil and Gas Development Company, Pakistan Petroleum Ltd and Turkish National Oil Company.
9. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Izmir Port of the Republic of Turkey and the Port of the Karachi Port Trust of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Sister Seaports relation and cooperation.
10. Additional Protocol to the agreement concerning the reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment.
11. Joint Declaration Strengthening Pakistan- Turkey Strategic Relationship.
Pakistan Prime Minister’s Remarks at the Joint Press Stakeout with Prime Minister of Turkey
Prime Minister’s Remarks at the Joint Press Stakeout with Prime Minister of Turkey – 17 February 2015
(2015-02-18)
Excellency, Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu,
Distinguished Members of Turkish delegation,
Excellencies,
Respected Representatives of the media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am delighted to welcome Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu and the Turkish delegation to their second home, Pakistan: Hosh-gel-deniz (welcome).
The relationship between Pakistan and Turkey is unique in inter-state relations – for the depth of mutual trust and abiding commitment.
We just witnessed Turkey’s unfailing support and solidarity again, when our children were mercilessly attacked by terrorists in Peshawar.
I reiterate our profound gratitude to the Turkish people and leadership for solidly standing by us in that extremely difficult hour.
Indeed, both nations have always supported each other through such testing times.
We, in Pakistan, also admire Turkey’s achievements – be these in economic development or contributions to regional and international peace and security.
Turkey’s Presidency of G-20 this year is yet another milestone, on which we congratulate the Turkish leadership.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
We have just concluded the 4th session of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council. Our talks were wide-ranging.
The HLSCC provides strategic focus and direction to our bilateral relationship -- covering key areas like political cooperation, trade, finance and banking, energy, transport and communications, education, and culture and tourism.
We reaffirmed our joint commitment to continue to transform our special relationship into a strong strategic partnership.
We have agreed to give a central thrust to bilateral trade and investment cooperation. We are embarking on new trade liberalization initiatives and would work towards an FTA.
Our security, defence and counter-terrorism cooperation remains robust.
The MoUs and agreements signed today would further enhance bilateral cooperation in diverse fields – including economic and social sectors.
We have no doubt that Pakistan-Turkey relations would continue to grow from strength to strength – serving as a powerful factor for stability in the region and beyond.
Pakistan and Turkey are pivotal states, playing a vitally important role in their respective regions and crafting effective response to challenges and opportunities.
We exchanged views on the regional situation.
I apprised Prime Minister Davutoğlu of our endeavours for peace, stability and development in South Asia – as part of our vision of a “peaceful neighbourhood.”
I highlighted the efforts Pakistan has made for a good-neighbourly relationship with India and our commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute.
I expressed the hope that our constructive approach would be reciprocated by the other side, in the interest of regional peace and strategic stability.
I also highlighted the historic new phase we have commenced in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations and the intensifying multi-dimensional cooperation on political, security, counter-terrorism, and trade and economic issues.
We have met today in the backdrop of the Paris attack and its aftermath.
I shared my deep anguish and unreserved condemnation of any attempts to vilify Islam and justify sacrilegious acts towards our Holy Prophet (PBUH) in the name of freedom of expression.
While condemning terrorism in all forms, Pakistan and Turkey have reaffirmed their resolve to work together to oppose any form of Islamophobia.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am gratified with the outcome of our extensive talks and the HLSCC meeting, which would place our relationship on an even higher pedestal.
As indispensible partners, Pakistan and Turkey would continue to work closely --making a substantial contribution to peace and development, at the bilateral, regional and international levels.
I thank you and invite Prime Minister Davutoğlu for his remarks.
Islamabad
17 February 2015
Distinguished Members of Turkish delegation,
Excellencies,
Respected Representatives of the media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am delighted to welcome Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu and the Turkish delegation to their second home, Pakistan: Hosh-gel-deniz (welcome).
The relationship between Pakistan and Turkey is unique in inter-state relations – for the depth of mutual trust and abiding commitment.
We just witnessed Turkey’s unfailing support and solidarity again, when our children were mercilessly attacked by terrorists in Peshawar.
I reiterate our profound gratitude to the Turkish people and leadership for solidly standing by us in that extremely difficult hour.
Indeed, both nations have always supported each other through such testing times.
We, in Pakistan, also admire Turkey’s achievements – be these in economic development or contributions to regional and international peace and security.
Turkey’s Presidency of G-20 this year is yet another milestone, on which we congratulate the Turkish leadership.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
We have just concluded the 4th session of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council. Our talks were wide-ranging.
The HLSCC provides strategic focus and direction to our bilateral relationship -- covering key areas like political cooperation, trade, finance and banking, energy, transport and communications, education, and culture and tourism.
We reaffirmed our joint commitment to continue to transform our special relationship into a strong strategic partnership.
We have agreed to give a central thrust to bilateral trade and investment cooperation. We are embarking on new trade liberalization initiatives and would work towards an FTA.
Our security, defence and counter-terrorism cooperation remains robust.
The MoUs and agreements signed today would further enhance bilateral cooperation in diverse fields – including economic and social sectors.
We have no doubt that Pakistan-Turkey relations would continue to grow from strength to strength – serving as a powerful factor for stability in the region and beyond.
Pakistan and Turkey are pivotal states, playing a vitally important role in their respective regions and crafting effective response to challenges and opportunities.
We exchanged views on the regional situation.
I apprised Prime Minister Davutoğlu of our endeavours for peace, stability and development in South Asia – as part of our vision of a “peaceful neighbourhood.”
I highlighted the efforts Pakistan has made for a good-neighbourly relationship with India and our commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute.
I expressed the hope that our constructive approach would be reciprocated by the other side, in the interest of regional peace and strategic stability.
I also highlighted the historic new phase we have commenced in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations and the intensifying multi-dimensional cooperation on political, security, counter-terrorism, and trade and economic issues.
We have met today in the backdrop of the Paris attack and its aftermath.
I shared my deep anguish and unreserved condemnation of any attempts to vilify Islam and justify sacrilegious acts towards our Holy Prophet (PBUH) in the name of freedom of expression.
While condemning terrorism in all forms, Pakistan and Turkey have reaffirmed their resolve to work together to oppose any form of Islamophobia.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am gratified with the outcome of our extensive talks and the HLSCC meeting, which would place our relationship on an even higher pedestal.
As indispensible partners, Pakistan and Turkey would continue to work closely --making a substantial contribution to peace and development, at the bilateral, regional and international levels.
I thank you and invite Prime Minister Davutoğlu for his remarks.
Islamabad
17 February 2015
Bir eski Türkiye hatıra müzesi olarak Pakistan - Yıldıray Oğur
Askerî havalimanına adını veren Nur Khan Pakistan hava kuvvetlerini, sonra sivil havacılığını kurmuş sonra hokey, kriket, squash federasyonlarını yönetmiş, siyasete girmiş, vali olmuş bir mareşal. Hikayesi Pakistan’ın da hikayesi. Ordusuna ait ülkelerden biri Pakistan. Türkiye'den tanıdık gelen bir hikaye bu.
1960’da başkentin, güneyde Arap denizi kenarındaki tarihî kent Karaçi’den, Yunan mimar Konstantinos Apostolos Doxiadis’e sıfırdan yaptırılan, Himalayaların devamı Margala Tepeleri’nin eteklerindeki İslamabad’a taşınmasının sebebi de askerî. Yeni Başkentin 14 km ilerisindeki Rawalpindi, Pakistan ordusunun ana karargahı, ayrıca hemen karşısı Hindistan-Pakistan arasında itilaflı Keşmir.
O yüzden 1, 2, 3. caddeler, mavi, kırmızı bölgeler diye cetvelle çizilmiş İslamabad’a bir şehir demek mümkün değil. Her merkezin ortasına kondurulmuş yapay çarşılar dışında insanların görünmediği bir başkent bu.
Güvenlik noktalarının olduğu yol boyu, bütün direklerde Pakistan Cumhurbaşkanı Memnun Hüseyin, Başbakan Nawaz Şerif ile birlikte Başbakan Davutoğlu’nu posterleri var. Bütün üst geçitlerde, kavşakların üstünde de hoş geldiniz pankartları. Aslında bu dost ve kardeş Pakistan’ın bize bir jesti değil, başkente gelen bütün liderler için standart karşılama böyle. En unutulmazı Çek Başbakanı için olanı. Bütün şehri Çek Cumhuriyeti bayrağı yerine, satranç (Chess)tan karıştırıp damalı bayraklarla süsleyince küçük bir diplomatik kriz olmuş.
Türkiye heyeti için ayrılan Serena Hotel, 2008’de Marriot Hotel’deki patlamada 80 kişinin ölmesinden sonra şehrin en büyük ve güvenli oteli. En eski eserin 1960’dan kalma olduğu bu şehirde gezerken rehberler binaların hikayesini “şu tarihte saldırıya uğramıştı” diye anlatıyor.
Yani Güvenlik birincil mesele. Öyle olunca da Davutoğlu’nu hotelinde ev sahibi gibi ilk ziyaret eden kişinin Kara Kuvvetleri Komutanı olmasına şaşmamak gerekiyor. Yine de İngilizcenin gayriresmî dil olduğu bu şehrin Türkiye’de dahi bulunamayacak zenginlikteki ve ucuzluktaki kitapçılarından birine girdiğinizde karşınıza raf raf Pakistan ordusu üzerine kitaplar çıkıyor. Çoğu eleştirel kitaplar bunlar. Ordunun CIA ile ilişkileri üzerine örneğin. Pakistan’ın gerçek derin devleti olan istihbarat örgütü ISI üzerine ise daha az kitap var. Gerçek patronun kim olduğu hakkında bir fikir veriyor bu.
Pakistan vesayet rejiminin tanıdık bir parçası da Anayasa Mahkemesi. Mahkemenin Meclis’i ve başbakanlığı gölgede bırakan görkemli binası bile çok şey anlatıyor. Başbakanlara hapis cezası yetkisi olan mahkemenin, bir başbakanı düşürmek için hakkında 5 dakika hapis cezası vermesi yeterli.
Mahkemenin son düşürdüğü Başbakan 15 Ocak 2013’te rüşvetten 24 saatliğine tutukladığı Başbakan Raja Pervez Ashraf. Mahkemeye bu kararı verdiren ise yolsuzluklara karşı başlatılan gösterilerdi. Lahor'dan başkent İslamabad'a 1 milyon kişilik yürüyüş çağrısı yapan kişinin adı ise Türkiye’de az çok biliniyor artık: Din adamı ve Pakistan Halk Hareketi lideri Tahir-ul Kadri.
Tahir-ül Kadri, Pakistan’ın bir nevi Fethullah Gülen’i. Aslen hukukçu olan, beş dil bilen, 1989’da parti kuran Kadri’nin cemaatini büyüten kişi aslında Başbakan Nawaz Şerif’in zengin bir işadamı olan babası. Ne tesadüf. Baba Şerif, çok etkilendiği Kadri’yi sahibi olduğu demir çelik fabrikalarının camisine vaiz yapıyor. Sonra oğul Şerif de vali olunca Tahir-ül Kadri’ye tv'de program yaptırıyor. Böylece şöhreti ve cemaati büyüyor. Akıbet de benzer. Tahir-ül Kadri, Şerifleri satıp, onlara karşı Perwez Müşerref’in darbesini destekliyor. Bir nevi Gülen’in 28 Şubat’a desteği gibi.
Biraz daha benzetelim; Tahir-ül Kadri de okullar açıyor, dinler arası diyalog çalışmaları yürütüyor, üniversiteler kuruyor, hukukçular, hatta bir rivayete göre ordu arasında örgütleniyor…
Ve tabii 2005 yılında da Kanada’ya yerleşiyor. İnziva dediği bu geri çekilmede, Batı’yla güçlü ilişkiler kuruyor, terörizme karşı küresel barış mesajları veriyor. Yurt dışında binlerce kişinin katıldığı toplantılar düzenliyor. Bezenemeyen kısma geldik; Sonra 2012’de ani bir kararla Pakistan’a dönüyor.
2013’teki denemeden sonra esas büyük kalkışması ise daha geçenlerde bitti. Seçimlerde hile iddiasıyla meşhur İngiliz asilzadesi kriketçi İmran Han’la birlikte Nawaz Şerif hükümetinin istifası için ağustos 2014’te İslamabad’da devlet kurumlarının bulunduğu caddede binlerce kişiyle oturma eylemi başlatmışlardı. 6 ay süren eylemleri bitirense Pakistan Taliban’ın geçen ay Peşawer’de çoğu çocuk 148 kişiyi katlettiği korkunç saldırı oldu. Bir de Tahir-ül Kadri ve İmran Khan’ın bu eylemleri yaparken yurt dışında yaptıkları görüşmelerle etraflarındaki kişilerden gelen bazı itiraflar.
Tahir-ül Kadri yeniden Kanada’ya döndü. Bu saldırının şokuyla birlik beraberlik duygusunun yükseldiği ülkedeki gazetelerin tek gündemiyse Belücistan’da, Veziristan’daki silahlı gruplara yönelik başlatılan operasyonlar.
O yüzden Başbakan Davutoğlu’nun bir araya geldiği Pakistanlı gazetecilerin sorularından biri “Siz Kürt meselenizi nasıl çözdünüz, bizde etnik sorunlar var, neler tavsiye edersiniz” oldu. KCK’nın son açıklamasını duymamışlar demek ki. Duysalar herhalde silahların gölgesi altında yaşamaktan bıkmış insanlar olarak, rol model olarak gördükleri Türkiye’ye karşı bile silahın gücüne bu iman karşısında hayal kırıklığına uğrarlardı.
Sorulardan bir diğeri “ordu meselesini nasıl hâllettiniz”di.
“Tutuklu gazeteciler” sorusu Türkiye ile ilgili propagandanın oraya kadar ulaştığını gösteriyordu. New York Times’a Cihangirli bir Gezi aktivisti olarak yazdığı mektubun buranın şartlarına uydurulmuş bir benzerini Urduca olarak da yayınlamış Fethullah Gülen.
Davutoğlu ise Pakistanlı gazetecilere din ve siyaset arasındaki sınırların iyi belirlenmesi, istikrarın iyisinin demokratik istikrar olduğu, seçimle gelenin seçimle gitme geleneğinin yerleşmesinin önemi, Müslümanların rasyonel ve soğukkanlı olmasının gereği üzerine bir konuşma yaptı. O konuşmanın kendisi bile Türkiye tecrübesinin kıymeti hakkında çok şey söylüyordu.
Dost ve kardeş Pakistan’la ticaret hacmi, dost ve kardeşliğe yakışmayacak düzeyde düşükmüş. Haklılar, Pakistan’ın kuzey komşusu Çin çünkü. Ama birkaç hafta öncesine kadar oturma eyleminin sürdüğü caddede devam eden inşaatın Türkiyeli şirketler tarafından yapılan metrobüs inşaatı olduğunu öğreniyoruz. Yani Metrobüs böylece ihraç ürünlerimiz arasına artık...
Bir ormanın içine kurulmuş olan yemyeşil şehrin Himalayalara yakın olduğunu insana hissettiren, sokak hayvanlarının maymun olduğunu fark etmek oluyor. Ormanlar dışında şehrin turistlerin mutlaka görmesi gerekenler listesindeki birkaç yerinden biri Vedat Dalokay’ın fazla modern bulunup Kocatepe’ye yapılmayan camisi. Suudiler parasını verdiği için adı Faysal Camii.
Medreselerin çok güçlü olduğu ülkede tarikatla medresenin arasının açık olması pek çok dini çatışmanın ve radikalizmin de sebebi. Hinduizmden epeyce etkilenmiş Pakistan tasavvufundaki aşırılıkların (Peygamber gelebilir diye namazlarda herkesin yanındaki yeri boş bırakması gibi) karşısında bir okulu basıp çocukların kafasına sıkmaya kadar varmış "radikal selefilik" var.
Pakistan hem bu çatışmayla hem de Afganistan Talibanı'nın bile kınadığı bir Pakistan Talibanı’yla test oluyor. Tabii bütün bu dini çatışmaları sertleştiren aşiretler ve etnik kimlikler arasındaki çatışmaların da dini kimlikler altında sürmesi...
Eğer gezinin programı iptal edilmeyip tarihî şehir Lahor’a gidebilseydik, aşırılıklar arasında sağduyunun yanında durmuş Muhammed İkbal’in şehrini ve mezarını da görebilecektik...
Davutoğlu’nun Pakistan gezisinin son günü de tıpkı Erdoğan’ın Meksika gezisinin son günü gibi programdan çıkarıldı. Tesadüf olabilir. Ama sanki liderleri Ankara’ya çağıran bir kritik hareketlilik var. Belki Davutoğlu’nun “Türkiyeli gibi” davranmaya çağırdığı Kandil’i ikna çabaları bunlar…
Türkiye’yi üç saatten daha fazla geriden izleyen Pakistan bir eski hatıralar müzesi gibi. Burayı görünce barışın, askerî vesayetle hesaplaşmanın kıymetini anlıyor insan. Batı’nın gözünde terörizmle eşitlenmiş Pakistanlılar da daha fazlasını hak ediyor…
BAŞBAKAN'A EN BÜYÜK NİŞAN
Başbakan Davutoğlu, İslamabad programını, Pakistan Cumhurbaşkanı Memnun Hüseyin'i ziyaretiyle noktaladı. Hüseyin, Davutoğlu'na, devlet başkanları ve başbakanlara verilen en büyük devlet nişanını sundu.
Courtesy: Turkiye Gazetesi19.2.2015
Başbakan Davutoğlu'nun Pakistan Ziyareti - Sadık Babür Girgin
Türkiye'nin İslamabad Büyükelçisi Girgin: "Sayın Başbakanımızın ziyaretinin en önemli sonuçlarından biri; iki ülke arasında tercihli ticaret yerine, serbest ticaret anlaşması müzakerlerinin bu yıl içerisinde sonuçlandırılması hedefiyle başlatılmasına yönelik ortak bir irade oluşturulmasıdır" Türkiye'nin İslamabad Büyükelçisi Sadık Babür Girgin, Başbakan Ahmet Davutoğlu'nun Pakistan ziyaretine ilişkin, "Sayın Başbakanımızın ziyaretinin en önemli sonuçlarından biri, iki ülke arasında tercihli ticaret yerine, serbest ticaret anlaşması müzakerelerinin bu yıl içerisinde sonuçlandırılması hedefiyle başlatılması kararıdır" dedi.
Türkiye'nin İslamabad Büyükelçisi Girgin: "Sayın Başbakanımızın ziyaretinin en önemli sonuçlarından biri; iki ülke arasında tercihli ticaret yerine, serbest ticaret anlaşması müzakerlerinin bu yıl içerisinde sonuçlandırılması hedefiyle başlatılmasına yönelik ortak bir irade oluşturulmasıdır" Türkiye'nin İslamabad Büyükelçisi Sadık Babür Girgin, Başbakan Ahmet Davutoğlu'nun Pakistan ziyaretine ilişkin, "Sayın Başbakanımızın ziyaretinin en önemli sonuçlarından biri, iki ülke arasında tercihli ticaret yerine, serbest ticaret anlaşması müzakerelerinin bu yıl içerisinde sonuçlandırılması hedefiyle başlatılması kararıdır" dedi.AA muhabirine Başbakan Ahmed Davutoğlu'nun Pakistan ziyaretini değerlendiren Girgin, iki ülkenin ortak bakanlar kurulu olarak nitelendirdiği Yüksek Düzeyli Stratejik İşbirliği Konseyi toplantılarının dördüncüsünün başkent İslamabad'da gerçekleştirildiğini hatırlattı. Başbakan Davutoğlu'nun beraberindeki 6 bakan ile ziyareti gerçekleştirdiğini belirten Girgin, şunları söyledi: "2009 yılında iki ülke arasında oluşturulan bu konsey vesilesiyle bugüne kadar toplam 40 belge imzalanmış. Bu defa bunlara 11 belge daha eklendi. Bunların arasında bilimsel işbirliğinden, iki ülke limanları arasında bilgi ve tecrübe paylaşımına kadar bir çok başlık bulunuyor. Başbakanımızın ziyaretinin en önemli sonuçlarından biri, iki ülke arasında tercihli ticaret yerine, serbest ticaret anlaşması müzakerelerinin bu yıl içerisinde sonuçlandırılması hedefiyle başlatılmasına yönelik ortak bir irade oluşturulmasıdır. Uzun süredir tercihli ticaret anlaşması yapılması gündemdeydi ancak bunun bir adım ötesine geçilerek serbest ticaret anlaşması iradesi oluştu. Hatta diğer ülkeler ile imzalananlardan daha kapsamlı olması bekleniyor. Ziyaretin en önemli sonuçlarından biri budur."İki ülke arasındaki ticaret hacminin son bir kaç yılda inişe geçtiğini belirten Girgin, "Şimdi onu üçe dörde katlamak hedefi var. Her alanda bunu artırma gayretindeyiz. Beklenenin ötesinde ilerleme kaydedilen bir ziyaret oldu. Pakistan büyük potansiyeli olan bir ülkedir" ifadesini kullandı. Başbakan Davutoğlu'nun ziyarette, Türkiye'nin her konuda işbirliği yapmaya hazır olduğunu dile getirdiğini kaydeden Girgin, "Eğer tercihli ticareti 2.vites olarak düşünürsek serbest ticaret anlaşması ile 5. vitese çıkılması öngörülüyor" dedi. Girgin, iki ülke başbakanın ziyaret esnasında karşılıklı olarak Türkiye ve Pakistan'ı adeta birinci evleri olarak gördüklerini ifade etmesini, şu sözlerle değerlendirdi: "Türk olarak buraya gelindiğinde ya da Pakistanlı olarak Türkiye'ye gidildiğinde büyük kabuller görülüyor. Bir Türk, Pakistan'ın neresine giderse gitsin büyük bir kabul görüyor. Bu ifadeler, bunun tezahürüdür. Bu ilişkiler Pakistan'ın ve Türkiye Cumhuriyeti'nin de gerisine Trablusgarb Savaşı'na kadar gidiyor. Bu hissiyatlar ile söylenmiştir."Pakistan ve Türkiye arasında akademik alandaki işbirliğinin daha da geliştirilmesinin de öngörüldüğünü sözlerine ekleyen Girgin, "Geçen yıl Türkiye'den 30'un üzerinde üniversite Pakistan'a gelip tanıtım yaptı. Pakistan tarafı da akademik işbirliğinin arttırılmasını arzu ediyor. Pakistan tarafının bir önerisi ise Türk üniversiteler ve Pakistan üniversitlerinin eşleştirilerek kardeş haline getirilmesidir" şeklinde konuştu. İki ülke arasında imzalanan anlaşmalar şöyle: Ankara Ticaret Odası (ATO) ile Pakistan Ticaret Odası arasında işbirliği protokolü, ATO ile Lahore Ticaret ve Sanayi Odası arasında işbirliği protokolü, Kayseri Ticaret Odası ile Lahor Ticaret ve Sanayi Odası arasında işbirliği protokolü, TÜBA ile Pakistan Bilimler Akademisi arasında İşbirliği Protokolü, TÜBA ile Pakistan Bilimler Akademisi arasında Bilimsel İşbirliği Uygulama Protokolü, Türk Akreditasyon Kurumu ile Pakistan Ulusal Akreditasyon Konseyi arasında mutabakat muhtırası, Türk Patent Enstitüsü ile Pakistan Fikri Mülkiyet Kurumu arasında işbirliği protokolü, TPAO ile Pakistanlı muhatabı Oil and Gaz Development Company (OGDC) ve Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) arasında işbirliğine dair mutabakat zaptı, İzmir ile Karaçi arasında kardeş liman ilişkisi ve işbirliğine dair mutabakat muhtırası, Yatırımların Karşılıklı Teşviki ve Korunmasına Yönelik Anlaşmaya İlişkin Protokol. - Başbakan Davutoğlu'nun Pakistan ziyareti- Türkiye'nin İslamabad Büyükelçisi Sadık Babür Girgin
Courtesy: Son Dakika
Turkey and Pakistan: Beyond friendship - Prof. Dr. Selcuk Colakoglu, 18 February 2015
Turkey-Pakistan relations have always been maintained at a decent level and in a friendly manner. There have been three primary spheres of cooperation that characterize the relations between these two countries since Pakistan gained independence in 1947. First of all, both Turkish and Pakistani societies have a common cultural heritage whose roots are ingrained in history. There is no other way than this to describe the mutual sympathy that both societies have towards one another. In the past, each society offered assistance to the other when it was in need of help. For instance, Indian Muslims in the area known today as Pakistan helped the Turkish people during the Turkish War of Independence that took place directly after WWI. To give another example, Pakistan was one of the countries that offered the most assistance to Turkey after the 1999 Marmara Earthquake. Alternately, the Turkish people have also afforded the Pakistani people significant assistance after the disastrous earthquakes and floods that hit the country in the 2000s. There is no doubt that this solid friendship between the peoples of these two countries constitutes the most powerful aspect of Turkish-Pakistani relations.
Ankara and Islamabad also have a history of cooperation in the realms of foreign policy and security, having supported each other in order to defend their respective interests in the international arena. Since the Cold War period, Turkey and Pakistan have sided with the other’s approaches to the Cyprus and Kashmir issues. Additionally, strong relations have also been established between the Turkish and Pakistani armies in terms of defense cooperation. The third important sphere that characterizes Turkish-Pakistani relations concerns economic and commercial matters.
Deepening Institutional Cooperation
Currently, political relations and high-level contacts at the bilateral level are intensive as well. To date, almost every prime minister and president who has ever held office in either Turkey or Pakistan has paid the other a visit before the end of their term in office. Recently, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan visited Pakistan from December 23-24, 2013, while Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif visited Turkey on the occasion of the Eighth Afghanistan-Pakistan-Turkey Trilateral Summit from February 12-15, 2014. However, the two countries have failed to build a comprehensive institutional framework that could coincide with the positive trajectory of their bilateral relations. To remedy this, relations between the two countries gained a structural form in 2009 with the establishment of the High Level Cooperation Council (HLCC) mechanism. The third meeting of the HLCC convened on September 17, 2013, during which over 40 documents were signed jointly by Pakistan and Turkey.
With this Council Turkey and Pakistan have gained the opportunity to develop common stances in international and regional affairs as well as to cultivate coordinated approaches in their bilateral relations. Facilitated by this platform, relevant officials from both sides can meet and propose potential areas of cooperation. In the near future, Turkey and Pakistan will need to consolidate their political cooperation regarding two issues.
First, a stable Afghanistan that is integrated into both the regional and global systems serves the interests of both Turkey and Pakistan. With respect to this aim, the Afghanistan-Pakistan-Turkey Trilateral Summits, which were launched in 2007, provide a meaningful framework. By maintaining these trilateral summits, all sides can develop a system of regional cooperation that observes the interests of each Ankara, Islamabad and Kabul.
Second, Turkey and Pakistan have been among the countries most negatively affected by terrorism in recent times. These two countries should undertake close cooperation in preventing and halting the activities of terrorist organizations with motives based on ethnic, sectarian and religious ideologies. The already existent relations between the Turkish and Pakistani armies and police can enable cooperation in this field to be expeditiously executed.
Further Economic Cooperation is needed
The extremely favorable atmosphere surrounding bilateral contacts on the political level is not mirrored in the two countries’ bilateral trade and economic relations. The fact that the economies of Turkey and Pakistan are not complementary in essence plays a large part in this reality. As a result, both the volume of bilateral trade and the flow of mutual FDI remain rather low. For instance, Pakistan ranks 68th on the list of Turkey’s trade partners, just after Jordan and Colombia, with a bilateral trade volume of $723 million in 2013. The decline in our bilateral trade volume from $1 billion in 2011 to this current level signifies a loosening of economic ties. Earlier, Turkey did not favor signing the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) with Pakistan because Ankara was worried that Turkey’s labor-intensive sectors – the textile sector in particular – would suffer. However, at this current juncture, Ankara and Islamabad both receive the idea of signing the agreement favorably, with the aim of lending impetus to bilateral relations. Yet while signing the PTA will mark an important step, it won’t be enough by itself. It should be reinforced with incentives targeting the private sector, and bolstered with people-to-people contact.
In this vein, there is a need to increase interaction between the peoples of Turkey and Pakistan as their inter-societal connection remains rather weak. The total number of visitors between the two countries does not exceed 50,000 annually. By promoting cooperation in tourism and education, the two countries can enhance the connection between their societies. Similarly, cooperation agreements between universities could accelerate the exchange of academics and students. It will not be easy to extend the capacity of the relations between these two countries without increasing the exchange of human capital.
Another basic reason why bilateral commercial and economic relations have not developed to a substantial level is due to the lacuna of a well-functioning logistics network between Turkey and Pakistan. The shortest and fastest way to transport goods between Turkey and Pakistan is the route across Iran. While Turkey, Pakistan and Iran constantly underscore their trilateral economic cooperation in the Baghdad Pact, the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) and the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), this trilateral economic cooperation and the logistical infrastructure have so far remained underdeveloped. At this point, the fundamental source of the problem is the substantial set of obstacles that Iran puts before the Turkish cargo vehicles carrying goods in transit to Central Asia, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Moreover, railroads connecting Turkey, Iran and Pakistan cannot be efficiently used for the transport of goods. In addition to the technical problems, a primary predicament here is that Iran levies high transit fees and additional taxes on Turkish vehicles and cargo trains. Recently, in mutual acts of retaliation in October 2014, both Turkey and Iran increased the fees for transit transportation which cargo vehicles must pay at customs, thus grinding the transportation of goods from Turkey to Turkmenistan to a near halt. Here, all affected sides should develop an institutional solution to this problem within the framework of ECO. If ECO cannot foster a liberalization policy on the free movement of goods among its members as has been done in the EU, it will end up turning into a vacuous organization.
All in all, Turkey and Pakistan are two countries that share a long-lasting and strong friendly relationship. It is necessary that these friendly relations promote a perspective for the future that is based on a shared vision, and if this is done, relations will continue to develop. However, the level of bilateral economic cooperation still remains well below what is expected and if the mutual friendship is not turned into an economic partnership, the desire for better relations will not be met.
All in all, Turkey and Pakistan are two countries that share a long-lasting and strong friendly relationship. It is necessary that these friendly relations promote a perspective for the future that is based on a shared vision, and if this is done, relations will continue to develop. However, the level of bilateral economic cooperation still remains well below what is expected and if the mutual friendship is not turned into an economic partnership, the desire for better relations will not be met.
Courtesy: Journal of Turkish Weekly
PAKISTAN-TURKEY RELATIONS TO CONTINUE STRENGTHEN FURTHER: PRESIDENT MAMNOON HUSSAIN
The special relationship between Pakistan and Turkey must be transformed into a strategic partnership encompassing all dimensions of bilateral relations; President of Pakistan Mr. Mamnoon Hussain said this while welcoming H.E. Ahmet Davutoglu on his first visit to Pakistan as Turkey’s Prime Minister, who called on him here at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Tuesday.
Congratulating the visiting dignitary on assumption of the office of Turkish Prime Minister, the President emphasized on translating the existing cordiality and goodwill between the two countries into a mutually beneficial robust economic partnership. The President underlined the need to ensure greater interface between the private sectors of both countries for promotion of investment and further deepening of trade relations. The Business Forum held today is an important element of this process. Such interface should take place on a regular basis and yield concrete results, added the President.
The President highlighted that leading Turkish companies are increasingly becoming involved in projects in Pakistan. He expressed hope that more companies would be urged to invest in key priority sectors such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, communications, low cost housing and municipal services.
The Turkish Prime Minister categorically stated that in terms of friendship Pakistan is the topmost priority of Turkey and assured his continued support for Pakistan in future.
PRESIDENT CONFERS NISHAN-I-PAKISTAN UPON PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY
President Mamnoon Hussain conferred the award of Nihan-i-Pakistan upon Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey H.E. Ahmet Davutoglu in a special investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Tuesday.
The President conferred Nishan-i-Pakistan upon the Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey H.E. Ahmet Davutoglu in recognition of his outstanding role and contributions in deepening the bonds of fraternity, cooperation and strategic relations between Pakistan and Turkey.
The special investiture ceremony was attended, among others, by Federal Ministers, diplomats, parliamentarian, senior civil and military officers, and by members belonging to different walks of life.
Türkiye ile Pakistan arasında 11 anlaşma imzalandı
17 Şubat 2015 Salı 17:17
Başbakan Ahmet Davutoğlu, Pakistan’da mevkidaşı Navaz Şerif ile ikili anlaşmalara imza attı.
Başbakan Ahmet Davutoğlu, Pakistan’da mevkidaşı Navaz Şerif ile ikili anlaşmalara imza attı.
İki günlük temasları kapsamında Pakistan’a gelen Başbakan Davutoğlu ve beraberindeki heyet heyetler arası görüşmeye katıldı. Pakistan Başbakanı Navaz Şerif ve beraberindeki heyet ile gerçekleştirilen görüşmede, güncel bölgesel ve uluslararası konuların ele alındığı kaydedildi.
Daha sonra Başbakan Davutoğlu ile Pakistan Başbakanı Navaz Şerif’in eş başkanlıklarında, üçüncü toplantısı 17 Eylül 2013 tarihinde Türkiye’de düzenlenen Türkiye-Pakistan Yüksek Düzeyli Stratejik İşbirliği Konseyi’nin dördüncü toplantısı gerçekleştirildi. Toplantının ardındansa ikili anlaşmalara imza atıldı.
Davutoğlu, Pakistan’da resmi törenle karşılandı Davutoğlu, Pakistan’da resmi törenle karşılandı17 Şubat 2015 10:40 Başbakan Ahmet Davutoğlu resmi temaslarda bulunmak üzere geldiği Pakistan’da Pakistan Başbakanı Navaz Şerif tarafından resmi törenle karşılandı.
PRIME MINISTER NAWAZ SHARIF RECEIVES HIS TURKISH COUNTERPART
The Prime Minister warmly welcomed his Turkish counterpart and a smartly turned out contingent of armed forces presented the Guard of Honuor to the Turkish Prime Minister.
The two Prime Ministers held a one-on-one meeting in which matters of mutual interest came under discussion.
The Prime Minister hosted a luncheon was in honour of the Turkish Prime Minster and his delegation.
Both the Prime Ministers led their delegations at the 4th Meeting of Pakistan-Turkey High Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC).
In his opening remarks the Prime Minister said that Pakistan and Turkey are indispensable partners as they work assiduously to promote peace and prosperity for their peoples and the region.
The Prime Minister congratulated the Turkish Prime Minister on Turkey’s getting Presidency of G-20 this year, and appreciated that the involvement of Turkish companies in various projects in energy, infrastructure, municipal services and low-cost housing has increased in Pakistan.
The Prime Minster said that the Metro Bus, the wind energy, and solid waste management projects are shining examples of our growing collaboration.
The Prime Minister said that despite efforts, our trade remains below $ 1 billion, and a lot more needs to be done to enhance mutual trade.
In the course of meeting delegations from both sides exchanged their ideas to promote economic and cultural cooperation and to expedite the pace of implementing the MOUs/ Agreements already signed between the two countries.
In his remarks the Prime Minister said that our respective ministries and departments should carry out this process forward effectively, and the Joint Working Groups should closely follow-up for full implementation of our decisions.
The Prime Minister said that the glorious tradition of Pakistan-Turkey brotherhood must be passed on to our younger generations and we should always be partners and brothers.
The Turkish Prime Minster said that Pakistan is home to him and both countries share close spiritual, cultural and historical connections. He said that Turkey is keen to enhancing close economic and cultural relations with Pakistan.
Later both the Prime Ministers witnessed the MOU signing ceremony. The following 10 Protocols/MOUs were signed.
1. Protocol of Cooperation between Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Ankara Chamber of Commerce.
2. Protocol of Cooperation between Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Ankara Chamber of Commerce.
3. Protocol of Cooperation between Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Kayseri Chamber of Commerce.
4. Executive Protocol for Scientific Cooperation between Pakistan Academy of Sciences and Turkish Academy of Sciences.
5. Agreement for Scientific Cooperation between Pakistan Academy of Sciences and Turkish Academy of Sciences.
6. Memorandum of Understanding between Turkish Accreditation Agency (TURKAK) and Pakistan National Accreditation Council.
7. Cooperation Protocol between Turkish Patent Institute (TPI) of Turkey and Intellectual Property Organization.
8. Memorandum of Understanding between Oil and Gas Development Company, Pakistan Petroleum Ltd and Turkish National Oil Company.
9. MoUs between Turkey and Pakistan on Sister Seaport.
10. Joint Declaration Strengthening Pakistan- Turkey Strategic Relationship.
11. Additional Protocol to the agreement on Investment on Promotion and Protection of Investment.
Türkiye-Pakistan işbirliği gelecekte de sürecektir
17 Şubat 2015 Salı 15:25
Başbakan Davutoğlu, Pakistan ile Türkiye'nin yakın ve işbirliği içerisinde strateji yürüttüğünü ifade etti.
Pakistan Başbakanı Navaz Şerif ile Başbakanlık Konağında baş başa ve heyetler arası görüşmelerin ardından Türkiye-Pakistan Yüksek Düzeyli İşbirliği Konseyi toplantısına katılan Davutoğlu, daha sonra düzenlenen ortak basın toplantısında konuştu.
Ahmet Davutoğlu, Pakistan’ın Türklerin, Türkiye’nin de Pakistanlıların ikinci evi olduğunu söyledi. Pakistan’a başbakan olmasının ardından ilk ziyaretini gerçekleştirdiğini belirten Davutoğlu, akademisyen ve dışişleri bakanı olarak da bu ülkeye geldiğini anımsattı. Ahmet Davutoğlu, Türkiye için başbakanlık görevine gelinmesinin ardından ilk ziyaretlerden birinin Pakistan’a yapılmasının gelenekselleşmiş bir tavır olduğunu vurguladı.
Türkiye ve Pakistan’ın yüzyıllardır çok yakın manevi ve kültürel bağlarıyla güçlü tarihi köklere sahip olduğunu dile getiren Başbakan Davutoğlu, Pakistan halkının, Türklerin özgürlük savaşı boyunca gösterdiği dayanışmayı asla unutmayacaklarını ifade etti. Davutoğlu, o zamandan bu yana ne zaman Pakistan bir sorunla karşılaşsa bunun aynı zamanda Türkiye’nin bir sorunu ve ne zaman Türkiye bir problem yaşasa her zaman Pakistan’ın Türkiye’nin yanında olduğunu anlattı.
Başbakan Davutoğlu, bu iki ülkenin terör başta olmak üzere her türlü afet yönetimi konusunda dayanışma gösterdiğini belirterek “Bu nedenle Pakistan'da terörizm ve doğal afetler nedeniyle evlerini geçici olarak terk etmek zorunda kalan insanlar için 20 milyon dolar ilave yardım yapacağımızı belirtmek isterim. Türkiye her zaman Pakistan halkının yanında olacaktır” diye konuştu.
Davutoğlu, şöyle devam etti:
“Yüksek Düzeyli Stratejik İşbirliği Konseyi toplantımızda bölgesel ve uluslararası ve ikili birçok konuyu ele aldık. İkili ilişkilerde terörizme karşı güvenlik, ticaret, enerji, ulaşım ve diğer birçok alanda önemli kararlar aldık.
Gelecek aylarda serbest ticaret anlaşmasını mümkün olan en kısa sürede sonuçlandıracağız. Çünkü 2 yıl içinde en az 3 milyar dolar ve gelecek yıllarda 5 ila 10 milyar dolar olması gereken ticaret hacmimizin düşüş gösterdiğini fark ettik. Daha etkileşim ve işbirliğine ihtiyaç duyduğumuz ticari ilişkilerimizde çok iyi bir potansiyele sahibiz. Türkiye ile Pakistan birbirine komşudan da öte yakındır ancak coğrafi uzaklık nedeniyle daha etkili ulaşım yollarına ihtiyacımız var. Bu nedenle Pakistan Uluslararası Hava Yollarının yanı sıra Türk Hava Yolları'nın bu iki ülkeye daha çok sayıda sefer yapmasını istiyoruz. Sivil havacılık anlaşmaları, demiryolu bağlantıları ve deniz taşımacılığı konuları da çalışacağımız önemli ulaşım alanları. Enerji ve afet yönetimi gibi konularda beraber çalışmaya hazırız."
Bugün 11 anlaşma imzaladıklarını belirten Davutoğlu, bu anlaşmaların nasıl uygulandığını görmek için izleme mekanizmalarının da mevcut olduğunun altını çizdi.
Eminim ki Türkiye-Pakistan işbirliği gelecekte de sürecektir
Davutoğlu, zorlukların yaşandığı bölgelerde Pakistan ile Türkiye'nin yakın ve işbirliği içerisinde strateji yürüttüğünü ifade ederek "Afganistan'ın barış ve istikrarı Pakistan ve Türkiye'nin barış ve istikrarı anlamına gelir. Bu yüzden biz Türkiye-Pakistan ve Afganistan arasında üçlü mekanizma yürütüyoruz" dedi. Afganistan'daki dönüşümün ardından Türkiye'nin Afganistan ve Pakistan liderlerinin mükemmel işbirliğini görmekten mutlu olduğunu dile getiren Ahmet Davutoğlu, Pakistan'ın Hindistan ile yürüttüğü komşuluk ilişkilerini de desteklediklerini söyledi. Davutoğlu, Türkiye'nin daima bu tür barış amaçlı girişimlere destek olacağını kaydetti.
Türkiye'nin çevresindeki Suriye, Irak, Kıbrıs ve diğer konularla ilgili mevkidaşına bilgi verdiğini aktaran Davutoğlu, Şerif ile terörizm ve islamofobik saldırılar konusunda ortak duruşa sahip olduklarını belirtti.
Geçen haftalarda teröre karşı yürüyüşe katılmak için Paris'e gittiğini hatırlatan Davutoğlu, şunları söyledi:
"ABD'de Müslümanların öldürülmesiyle ya da Avrupa'da camilerin yakılmasıyla ilgili de tüm Avrupa ülkeleri ve ABD’den de aynı dayanışmayı bekliyoruz. Bugün, bütün insanlık için terörizme, her türlü ırkçılığa, yabancı düşmanlığına, islamofobik eğilimlere karşı omuz omuza mücadele etme zamanıdır."
Başbakan Davutoğlu, Asya'nın önde gelen iki demokrasisi olarak Pakistan ve Türkiye'nin uluslararası alanda hedeflerinin aynı olduğunu, birbirlerini desteklediklerini ve desteklemeye devam edeceklerini vurguladı.
Türkiye'nin desteğine teşekkür
Pakistan Başbakanı Navaz Şerif de iki ülke arasındaki ilişkilerin benzersiz olduğuna dikkati çekerek Peşaver'deki okula düzenlenen saldırı sonrasında Türkiye'nin kesintisiz desteğine ve dayanışmasına şahit olduklarını belirtti. Şerif, Türk halkına ve yöneticilerine Pakistan'ın bu oldukça zor anında gösterdiği destek için teşekkürlerini iletti.
Türkiye'nin başarılarını, hem bölgesel hem de küresel barış ve güvenliğe katkılarını takdir ettiklerini dile getiren Şerif, Türkiye'nin G-20 başkanlığının bunun başka bir kilometre taşı olduğunu ifade etti.
Yüksek Düzeyli İşbirliği Konseyi'nin (YDİK) dördüncü toplantısını yaptıkları bilgisini veren Şerif, YDİK'nin ikili ilişkilere stratejik odak ve yön verdiğini, siyasi işbirliği, ticaret, yatırım ve bankacılık, enerji, ulaşım, iletişim, eğitim ve kültürel turizm gibi kilit alanları etkilediğini kaydetti.
Şerif, toplantıda iki ülke arasındaki özel ilişkiyi güçlü ve stratejik ortaklığa çevirmek için ortak taahhütleri bir kez daha yinelediklerini söyledi.
Navaz, tarafların, ikili ticareti, yatırımı ve ortaklığı artırmak konusunda hemfikir olduğunu vurguladı.
Toplantı öncesinde imzalanan mutabakat muhtıralarının çeşitli alanlardaki ikili işbirliğini daha da ilerleteceğinin altını çizen Şerif, "Şüphemiz yok ki Pakistan-Türkiye ilişkileri daha da güçlenecek, inşallah bölge ve ötesindeki istikrarın faktörlerinden olacak" diye konuştu.
Bölgesel ilişkiler
Bölgesel konularda da görüş alışverişinde bulunduklarını aktaran Başbakan Navaz Şerif, Davutoğlu ile yaptığı görüşmede, Pakistan'ın Hindistan'la iyi komşuluk ilişkileri tesis etme ve Keşmir sorununun barışçıl çözümü konusundaki çabalarını anlattığını ifade etti. Şerif, Pakistan'ın bölgesel barış ve istikrar için ortaya koyduğu yapıcı yaklaşımların karşılık görmesini umduklarını söyledi.
Afganistan ve Pakistan arasındaki yeni, tarihi safhanın yanı sıra siyasi, güvenlik, terörle mücadele, ticaret ve ekonomik konularda giderek artan çok yönlü işbirliğinin de altını çizdiklerini kaydeden Şerif, Paris saldırısı ve sonrasıyla ilgili durumu da ele aldıklarını belirtti.
Görüşmede, ifade özgürlüğü adı altında, İslam'ın kötülenmesinden ve Hazreti Muhammed'e hakaret edilmesinden duyduğu derin üzüntüyü de ifade ettiğini aktaran Şerif, terörün her türlüsünü lanetlediğini ifade etti.
Şerif, Türkiye ve Pakistan'ın yakın işbirliği içinde çalışmayı sürdüreceğini sözlerine ekledi.
Courtesy: TRT Haber
http://www.trthaber.com/haber/gundem/turkiye-pakistan-isbirligi-gelecekte-de-surecektir-168455.html
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)