Lahore/Ankara – A major Turkish Exporters Associations Expo was held in Lahore, featuring participation from nearly 20 export unions showcasing a wide variety of Turkish products.
The event was attended by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Dr. Yousaf Junaid, along with leading business figures and citizens. Ambassador Junaid visited different stalls and interacted with exporters.
Speaking to Türkiye Urdu at the occasion, the Ambassador said that in 2024, bilateral trade between Pakistan and Türkiye stood at $1.4 billion, reflecting a 33% increase compared to 2023. He emphasized that despite the growth, this figure remains far below the potential of both nations. Highlighting the future goals, he noted that Pakistan and Türkiye have set a target of $5 billion in bilateral trade by 2026.
Dr. Junaid further explained that a Trade in Goods Agreement signed between the two countries in 2023 had already contributed to the growth of trade. He added that the second phase of the agreement will be finalized in early 2026, which will include further expansion of tariff concessions.
Referring to decisions taken during President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Pakistan, the Ambassador said it was agreed that both countries would organize exhibitions to showcase their products in each other’s markets. In line with this, he confirmed that a major exhibition of Pakistani products is expected to be held in Istanbul in March next year.
The Ambassador also highlighted the brotherly ties between Pakistan and Türkiye, saying both nations have always stood by each other in difficult times, whether during floods or earthquakes.
On education, he noted the growing cooperation, pointing out that a large number of Pakistani students are studying in Türkiye, while Pakistan is now planning to offer scholarships for Turkish students as well.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Junaid stressed that Pakistan and Türkiye are moving forward together in all areas of cooperation, which will continue to expand in the future.
