Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday expressed deep concern over the forest fires in Turkey and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity, and reiterated readiness to extend all possible assistance to help cope with this calamity.

In a meeting with Turkish Minister for Defence Hulusi Akar, the premier highlighted historic fraternal ties between Pakistan and Turkey, marked by unique mutual trust and mutual support.

Imran expressed satisfaction at the existing level of bilateral defence cooperation and also thanked Turkey for its strong and consistent support to Pakistan on all issues, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

On regional issues, the premier shared Pakistan’s perspective on the Afghan peace process.

“A negotiated political settlement is the only way forward,” Imran underscored expressing hope that the Afghan leaders would recognise the importance of international convergence on the way forward and achieve an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement.

“Pakistan will continue to make every effort to help advance the Afghan peace process and to realize a political solution,” he added.

The prime minister conveyed his cordial greetings for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the brotherly Turkish people.

The Turkish minister for defence conveyed warm greetings from President Erdogan and reiterated Turkey’s support to Pakistan on all issues, including Jammu and Kashmir.

He concurred with Prime Minister Imran Khan on enhancing cooperation in all areas to the mutual benefit of both the countries, including the defence field.

He also underlined Turkey’s efforts to promote a political solution in Afghanistan.

Hulusi Akar is visiting Islamabad as part of frequent high-level exchanges between Pakistan and Turkey for consultations on important bilateral and regional issues.