Pak-Türkiye reaffirm commitment to boost bilateral trade

The latest meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Türkiye’s Minister of Trade, Prof. Dr. Ömer Bolat, on the sidelines of the 41st Session of COMCEC in Istanbul, marks yet another milestone in the steadily evolving partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye. What distinguishes this engagement is not just the reaffirmation of brotherly ties but a clear articulation of economic intent-one grounded in trade, investment, and mutual growth.
For decades, Pakistan and Türkiye have shared a bond that extends far beyond diplomacy. Rooted in common faith, shared history, and strategic alignment, their relationship has weathered global shifts while maintaining a spirit of cooperation. Yet, despite this goodwill, bilateral trade volumes have not reflected the full potential of these fraternal ties. The latest dialogue, therefore, offers both nations an opportunity to reset priorities and translate political warmth into economic substance.
In his meeting with Prof. Dr. Ömer Bolat, Minister Jam Kamal Khan presented a strong case for Turkish investment in Pakistan’s emerging markets. He outlined reforms initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to strengthen governance, transparency, and investor confidence. These reforms, aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles and improving regulatory frameworks, are crucial steps toward transforming Pakistan into a viable investment destination.
Minister Bolat reciprocated with equal enthusiasm, reaffirming Türkiye’s intent to deepen trade and economic cooperation. His assurance to review Pakistan’s proposals favorably in upcoming trade negotiations sends a positive signal to businesses on both sides. It reflects Ankara’s growing recognition that Pakistan, with its vast population, strategic location, and diverse industrial base, offers fertile ground for collaboration in sectors ranging from textiles and agriculture to information technology and energy.
The discussion also underscored a shared commitment to enhancing cooperation in the halal industry-a global market valued at over $2 trillion. Minister Bolat’s invitation to Jam Kamal Khan to attend the upcoming Halal Expo in Istanbul signifies Türkiye’s intent to integrate Pakistan into its expanding halal ecosystem. Pakistan, as one of the largest producers of halal food, can greatly benefit from Turkish expertise in certification, branding, and global distribution. A robust partnership in this area would not only strengthen trade but also help position both nations as leading players in the global halal economy.
Beyond trade, this engagement highlights a broader vision for regional connectivity. Türkiye serves as a bridge between Europe and Asia, while Pakistan lies at the heart of South and Central Asia-two gateways that, when connected, can redefine regional commerce. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Türkiye’s Middle Corridor initiatives could complement one another, creating new trade routes and logistical networks that enhance regional integration. Strengthening Pakistan-Türkiye economic ties, therefore, is not merely bilateral-it carries continental implications.
Both sides also expressed a desire to expand cooperation in industrial development. Türkiye’s experience in manufacturing, infrastructure, and technology transfer can serve as a model for Pakistan’s industrial modernization. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s skilled labor force and growing domestic market offer opportunities for Turkish enterprises to expand their operations. Joint ventures in construction, machinery, automotive parts, and renewable energy could lay the foundation for a new era of economic synergy.
However, for this partnership to flourish, both nations must address certain structural impediments. Bilateral trade currently hovers around $1 billion-a modest figure considering the size and potential of both economies. High tariffs, limited logistical connectivity, and lack of diversified export products have constrained growth. The Pakistan-Türkiye Trade in Goods Agreement, signed in 2022, was a step in the right direction, but its implementation must be accelerated. Establishing a dedicated Pakistan-Türkiye Business Council with private-sector representation could also help identify and overcome barriers to trade more effectively.
Equally critical is the role of banking and financial institutions in facilitating smoother transactions. Enhanced cooperation between central banks and trade-financing entities could ensure better credit facilities and easier currency settlements for exporters and importers. Moreover, direct shipping routes and air cargo links between Karachi, Lahore, and Istanbul could significantly reduce transit times and costs.
As both countries move toward stronger economic integration, people-to-people exchanges must not be overlooked. Expanding student exchange programs, as emphasized by Minister Virk during recent engagements, and promoting cultural collaborations can build trust and familiarity-ingredients essential for sustainable partnership. Türkiye’s growing investment in education and Pakistan’s young, tech-savvy demographic present natural avenues for collaboration in innovation, research, and skills development.
In essence, the meeting between Jam Kamal Khan and Prof. Dr. Ömer Bolat serves as a timely reminder that Pakistan and Türkiye’s friendship, though deeply rooted, must now mature into a robust economic alliance. The global economy is evolving rapidly; nations that align their trade, technology, and investment strategies today will define the markets of tomorrow.
By reaffirming their shared vision for prosperity, both countries have signaled readiness to move beyond symbolic gestures toward actionable cooperation. As Pakistan reforms its economy and Türkiye expands its regional outreach, the two brotherly nations stand at the threshold of a partnership capable of shaping not only their futures but also the economic geography of the wider region.
If implemented with consistency and political will, this renewed commitment could transform Pakistan-Türkiye relations from a story of goodwill into one of shared success and sustainable growth.