Pakistani president: Together with Turkey, we can strengthen regional peace

In his first interview for the Turkish media, Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain spoke to Daily Sabah and touched upon mutual ties with Turkey and how the two brotherly countries could aid strengthening regional stability and peace.

n How would you evaluate the future of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkey? In what direction do you think relations between the two countries will evolve?

Pakistan and Turkey are bound by deep-rooted ties based on religious and cultural affinities and shared history. The love and affection between the peoples of Pakistan and Turkey is unmatched. The two nations share their joys and sorrows and take pride in each other's achievements. We have a spiritual connection exemplified by the poetry of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi.

Both sides are engaged in efforts to transform their cordial relationship into a robust partnership encompassing all fields. The primary focus is on deepening economic interaction and enhancing bilateral trade and investments. The key sectors include energy, infrastructure, transportation, housing, municipal services and agriculture. It has also been decided to commence negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA). I am hopeful that our combined efforts will yield results commensurate with the vision of the leadership in both countries and aspirations of our two peoples.

Turkey and Pakistan are devoting efforts to restore order in Yemen. Do you think these efforts will be successful?Pakistan is concerned with the recent developments in Yemen as it threatens regional stability and the ummah's unity. At the outset, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif undertook a visit to Turkey for consultations with the Turkish leadership. Pakistan and Turkey remain in close contact and continue to work together to help bring the conflict to a quick and peaceful resolution. We have welcomed the announcement by Saudi Arabia to end its air campaign. We hope this will pave the way for efforts to reach a political settlement of the crises.

What other contribution can Turkey and Pakistan provide to regional stability?In the complex and difficult regional environment, as two leading Muslim democracies, Pakistan and Turkey are factors of stability in the broader region. Both countries have similar perspectives on these issues. Close consultations and joint efforts by Turkey and Pakistan can help strengthen regional peace and stability.

What do you think about the Iranian nuclear deal? Do you think that this deal is promising for the future of the region?

Iran is an important neighbor, with which we have close cooperative relations. Pakistan welcomes the understanding reached between Iran and the P5+1 regarding Iran's nuclear issue. Pakistan has consistently maintained that the Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue. It is our hope that the parties concerned will be able to finalize the comprehensive agreement and its implementation will contribute to stability in the region.

Despite the eye-opening relations, it is possible to say that Pakistan is among the places that Turkish political science and international relations analysts least study. How do you think this situation can be remedied?Pakistan-Turkey relations are very strong at governmental and public levels. The mutual trust and understanding between the two countries is unparalleled in inter-state relations. It is important to have more research and academic studies to highlight the strengths of this unique relationship and to identify further areas of mutual collaboration. The exceptionally strong bonds between Pakistan and Turkey need to be complemented by equally robust cooperation in the fields of research in diverse disciplines.

Are there any other comments you wish to make?It is always a pleasure and privilege to visit Turkey and to interact with the Turkish leadership. This is a particularly important juncture in Turkish history with the 100th anniversary commemoration of the Çanakkale land and sea battles. Like always, Pakistan is in strong solidarity with the Turkish nation at this historical moment as well. I am confident that our fraternal relationship will continue to flourish with each passing day and this glorious tradition of amity and brotherhood will continue to transcend to each succeeding generation in both countries.