A. M. Shahid (Former Ambassador): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during his visit to Turkey will look to increase trade and investment between Islamabad and Ankara. Current volume of trade between the two countries is not optimal. Prime Minister will brief the Turkish businessmen about investment opportunities in various areas of Pakistan’s economy. PM will be holding meeting with Turkish President as well as other high officials. Prime Minister is leading a big delegation to explore various avenues of cooperation with the brotherly country.

Dr. Salma Malik (IR Expert): Every government comes with its own foreign policy orientation. However, there are certain non-negotiable relations with certain states. Turkey is redefining international relations and has a leading role. Pakistan has always been very open with India when it comes to extending a hand of friendship. However, India does not seem sincere in reciprocating. Unless India changes its policy in IIOJ&K, there cannot be progress. PML-N government has always exhibited positive energy in relations towards Pakistan’s relations with other countries and it is hoped that relations will improve.

Dr. Zahid Anwar Khan (IR Expert): Turkey is an important country and Pakistan and Turkey enjoy deep rooted relations. They have unanimity of views on issues of regional and international importance. Both are key members of Islamic world and share views on problems bw3ing faced by Muslim Ummah. Turkey has supported Kashmiris’ right to self-determination. The current economic situation in Pakistan requires seeking friendships with various countries. Prime Minister during his visit will hold talks on increasing cooperation in trade, investment, science, technology and people to people contacts. Prime Minister in an interview his gave the outline of Pakistan’s relations with various countries and other issues of importance.