Pakistan and Türkiye Strengthen Cooperation on Afghanistan Peace Efforts

Islamabad and Ankara reaffirmed their commitment to fostering peace and stability in Afghanistan during a phone call between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday, March 19, 2026. The conversation highlighted Türkiye’s constructive role in promoting dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly in light of a temporary ceasefire announced during Eidul Fitr.

Temporary Ceasefire and Regional Stability

The phone call came a day after Pakistan announced a “temporary pause” in Operation Ghazab lil-Haq against the Afghan Taliban, a decision made in observance of Eidul Fitr and following requests from several Islamic countries, including Türkiye Dawn.

Prime Minister Sharif specifically acknowledged Türkiye’s contribution to the temporary ceasefire, emphasizing its importance in creating a conducive environment for peace talks. Both leaders underscored the need for regional stability and urged the international community to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy in resolving conflicts Türkiye Today.

Solidarity and Condemnation of Regional Escalation

During the call, Prime Minister Sharif strongly condemned the escalating tensions in the region, particularly the recent missile attacks targeting Türkiye. He conveyed Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with the Turkish people during these challenging times, stating that the entire nation stood with their Turkish “brothers and sisters” Pakistan Today.

Sharif also expressed Pakistan’s readiness to support efforts aimed at de-escalation and dialogue in the region, reaffirming the country’s commitment to peaceful resolutions Pakistan Today.

Bilateral Ties and Future Engagement

The leaders also discussed the strong bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Türkiye, recalling President Erdogan’s visit to Pakistan in February 2025 and Prime Minister Sharif’s visits to Türkiye in April and May 2025. They agreed to continue close engagement to promote peace, prosperity, and economic growth both bilaterally and regionally Dawn.

Prime Minister Sharif extended Eidul Fitr greetings to President Erdogan, his family, and the people of Türkiye.

Regional Concerns and Continued Dialogue

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Sharif reiterated his condemnation of attacks on Türkiye and other Gulf countries, emphasizing Pakistan’s steadfast solidarity and willingness to support de-escalation efforts Pakistan Today.

The leaders agreed on the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation to address the evolving situation in the Middle East, and Afghanistan.