Pakistan PM engages Putin, Erdogan, Pezeshkian on trade, peace, and regional ties

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif interacted with several world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian, on the sidelines of the International Forum in Ashgabat dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust.

Footage on state media showed Shehbaz warmly shaking hands and conversing with Putin, though no formal bilateral meeting was officially reported. Analysts said the informal interaction underscored Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining diplomatic engagement with major powers.

During a detailed meeting with Erdogan, Shehbaz emphasized strengthening Pakistan-Turkiye ties across political, economic, energy, defence, and investment sectors , highlighting energy, petroleum, and minerals as priority areas for Turkish investment. He urged timely implementation of recently signed agreements and appreciated Turkey’s role in peace efforts in Gaza and facilitation of talks with the Afghan Taliban, while stressing that lasting peace requires Pakistan’s security concerns to be addressed.

With Iranian President Pezeshkian, Shehbaz discussed boosting bilateral trade , operationalising border markets , enhancing border security coordination , and reviving regional transport links, particularly the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul rail corridor . Both leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments , including Gaza, and highlighted the need for coordinated pressure on the Afghan Taliban to address cross-border terrorism. Pezeshkian expressed Iran’s interest in deepening ties with Pakistan, calling the exchange “timely and constructive.”

Officials said the meetings reflected Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen regional cooperation, maintain security, and deepen economic and diplomatic engagement with countries that share historically close ties rooted in culture, history, and faith .