A high-level parliamentary delegation comprising women members of the Balochistan Assembly visited Türkiye, where both sides agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in investment, education, youth development, and parliamentary engagement.
The delegation was led by Farah Azeem Shah, MPA, leader of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) and President of its Women Wing. Other members included Salma Kakar, MPA (ANP), Hadiya Nawaz, MPA (PML-N), and Kulsoom, MPA (National Party).
Meetings with Senior Turkish Leadership
During the visit, the delegation held a series of important meetings with senior Turkish political leaders and parliamentary representatives. Discussions focused on:
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Strengthening bilateral relations
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Youth exchange programs
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Educational collaboration
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Investment opportunities
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Promoting positive narratives
The delegation also met leaders of the AK Party, led by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, where matters related to Pakistan–Türkiye brotherly relations, parliamentary cooperation, and regional development were discussed.
They also met Dr. Mustafa Kaya, Vice President of the Saadet Party and a member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly group in the Turkish Grand National Assembly.
Invitation for Investment in Balochistan
Farah Azeem Shah highlighted Balochistan’s strategic importance, natural resources, and development potential. She noted that initiatives such as the Balochistan Sustainable Development Initiative (BSDI) are rapidly transforming the province’s development landscape.
She invited Türkiye to invest in key sectors including:
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Mines and minerals
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Infrastructure
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Youth skills development
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Education
The delegation also requested scholarships for Pakistani students, particularly from Balochistan, in Turkish universities.
Discussion on Balochistan’s Global Perception
Turkish leaders expressed concern over what they described as a negative portrayal of Balochistan in sections of the international media, calling it part of misleading propaganda against Pakistan. They emphasized that ground realities differ from such narratives.
Agreement on Joint Think Tank and Working Group
Both sides agreed to establish a joint think tank and working group aimed at:
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Policy-level cooperation
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Expanding investment avenues
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Youth exchange programs
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Countering fake news and negative propaganda
The two sides also agreed to maintain regular high-level contacts and future exchanges.
