ISLAMABAD, Friday, January 30, 2026 (WNP): Chief of the General Staff of the Turkish Armed Forces, General Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu, on Friday called on Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, reaffirming the enduring strategic partnership and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Türkiye.

The meeting underscored the deep-rooted historical friendship between the two countries, founded on shared history, faith, and mutual respect. Both sides expressed satisfaction over the strength and depth of bilateral relations and reiterated their commitment to further enhancing cooperation in defence and security domains.

General Bayraktaroğlu appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the region and acknowledged its contributions to regional and international security.

He emphasized Türkiye’s strong desire for lasting regional stability, including peace in Afghanistan, stressing that sustained dialogue, cooperation, and diplomatic engagement remain essential to preventing conflict and ensuring collective security.

Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif expressed sincere appreciation for the unwavering support and principled stance of the Turkish leadership and people, particularly during challenging times for Pakistan.

He reaffirmed Islamabad’s policy of pursuing peace and stability through engagement, restraint, and close cooperation with regional and international partners.

The discussions also covered a range of issues of mutual interest, including ways to further strengthen defence and military collaboration, capacity building, and strategic coordination. Both sides highlighted the importance of institutionalized defence ties in addressing evolving security challenges.

The meeting concluded with a shared understanding to expand the Pakistan–Türkiye defence partnership, guided by strategic convergence and a common vision for enduring peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.