Karachi: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said that it was high time for Pakistan and Turkiye to enhance their bilateral strategic cooperation for the prosperity of the two nations.
Addressing the launching ceremony of the fourth MILGEM Class Corvette – PNS Tariq, Shehbaz said that Pakistan and Turkiye stand together in the face of challenges and have helped each other in difficult times throughout.
Lauding the leadership role of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the premier said the joint venture project is an example of cooperation and support between two brotherly countries. He specially mentioned the visit of Turkish President during the floods and the help of Turkish people for flood affected people.
The Vice President of Turkiye Cevdet Yilmaz was also present in the ceremony as guest of honour.
Last year, the prime minister attended the launching ceremony of the third corvette, PNS Khyber, in Istanbul. The first two corvettes, PNS Babur and PNS Badar were launched in Istanbul and Karachi, in August 2021 and May 2022 respectively.
The MILGEM project represents an enduring symbol of Pakistan-Turkiye collaboration in the maritime domain. It is a tangible step towards self-reliance and indigenisation and would fulfil the critical security needs of the Pakistan Navy.
