Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took the opportunity of Eidul Fitr to engage in diplomatic outreach, holding telephonic conversations with leaders across the Muslim world. From Turkiye to Uzbekistan, he extended warm greetings and reinforced commitments to bilateral relations, emphasizing economic and strategic cooperation.
Strengthening Ties with Turkiye
Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, exchanging Eid greetings and recalling the latter’s recent visit to Pakistan in February. The discussion centered around enhancing bilateral relations and ensuring swift execution of agreements made during the 7th High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) meeting in Islamabad.
The prime minister emphasized the importance of timely follow-ups on key economic and trade initiatives. Pakistan and Turkiye, already strong allies, are looking to deepen cooperation in multiple sectors, including defense, trade, and energy.
Commitment to Economic Growth with Azerbaijan
In a conversation with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Azerbaijan. This follows his recent visit to Baku, which laid the groundwork for enhanced trade and investment partnerships.
- Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy is scheduled to visit Islamabad in early April.
- High-level discussions will take place with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister.
- Plans are in motion for further economic collaboration and trade expansion.
Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress made in recent months and reaffirmed their mutual interest in developing long-term strategic partnerships.
Uzbekistan: A Growing Partner in Bilateral Cooperation
The prime minister also extended Eidul Fitr greetings to Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, underscoring the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Uzbekistan relations. The conversation touched upon the agreements made during Shehbaz Sharif’s February visit to Uzbekistan, particularly in trade and connectivity.
President Mirziyoyev, in turn, conveyed his Eid greetings to Pakistani leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to fostering stronger economic and diplomatic ties, particularly through regional connectivity projects.
Pakistan’s Support for Jordan on Gaza Crisis
During his call with King Abdullah II of Jordan, Shehbaz Sharif extended his Eid greetings while discussing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The prime minister lauded Jordan’s diplomatic and humanitarian efforts in advocating for Palestinian rights and delivering aid to Gaza.
King Abdullah acknowledged Pakistan’s firm stance in support of Palestine and appreciated Islamabad’s humanitarian assistance to the besieged region. The two leaders expressed solidarity in their mutual commitment to ensuring peace in Gaza and alleviating the suffering of innocent civilians.
Diplomacy Through Festive Gestures
Shehbaz Sharif’s Eid diplomacy highlights Pakistan’s continued efforts to reinforce ties with key Muslim nations. While Eidul Fitr is a religious occasion, it also serves as an opportunity for leaders to reaffirm friendships and push forward shared economic and political goals. These conversations set the stage for further diplomatic engagements and concrete policy actions in the coming months.
