President Asif Ali Zardari met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during a short stopover in Turkiyes Istanbul while on his way to Portugal.

The meeting took place at Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport State Guesthouse before President Erdogan’s departure to Malaysia.

Zardari, who was preparing to leave Türkiye, met with the Turkish leader before a scheduled press conference.

According to a statement released by the president’s press wing in Islamabad, President Zardari was warmly welcomed by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan upon his arrival. The two leaders exchanged pleasures before participating in a productive discussion about different issues of mutual interest.

The focus of their conversation was to strengthen the bilateral connections between Pakistan and Turkiye, take questions about common concern and explore opportunities for further collaboration, Express News reported.

The leaders highlighted the importance of their country’s sustained friendship and the common commitment to regional peace and stability.

This diplomatic commitment comes at a time when both nations seek to expand their ties in trade, defense and cultural exchange.

Meanwhile, President Zardari visits Portugal to express compassion after the passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan.