PM Shehbaz wraps tri-nation tour, highlights peace diplomacy and stronger regional ties

-- Focus on strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Türkiye
-- Peace and regional stability dominate high-level talks
-- Antalya Forum emerges as key global dialogue platform
-- Dar terms visit 'productive', stresses deeper cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif concluded his three-nation diplomatic tour on Saturday, holding extensive discussions on strengthening ties with brotherly countries, Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace, and the evolving global situation, according to a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office.

The statement was issued as the premier departed from Antalya after visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Türkiye, later arriving in Lahore. At Antalya Airport, he and his delegation were seen off by senior Turkish officials and diplomats, including Ambassador Tolga Bermek and Pakistan’s envoy to Türkiye.

According to the PMO, the tour included meetings with the leadership of all three countries, as well as interactions with global leaders attending the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. The delegation accompanying the prime minister included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant Syed Tariq Fatemi, and foreign media spokesperson Mosharraf Zaidi.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar described the visit as “productive and fruitful,” saying discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across key areas. He highlighted the prime minister’s “excellent interaction” with Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and noted engagements with several other world leaders during the forum, which he said has evolved into a major platform for global dialogue.

The prime minister began his tour on April 15 with a visit to Saudi Arabia, where he held a detailed meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He then travelled to Doha for talks with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, where both sides discussed developments of mutual interest.

In Türkiye, PM Shehbaz participated in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum and held a key meeting with President Erdoğan. The two leaders emphasised the importance of utilising the current window of opportunity to advance lasting regional peace. He also took part in a trilateral meeting with the Turkish president and the Qatari emir, along with informal interactions with other leaders, including the presidents of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Syria.

The visit reflects Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic outreach aimed at strengthening partnerships and contributing to peace and stability in the region.