Daily Times

Sir: Wide ranging, beneficial and vital international relations enunciate success on the diplomatic front for any country. In an appreciable step, the government is making efforts to make its foreign policy diverse, effective and productive. The visit of the Turkish prime minister is an example of this. Both the leaders announced their resolve to jointly fight terrorism, boost bilateral trade ties, take trade liberalisation initiatives, enhance cooperation in the energy sector, maritime, railways and investment. Both the countries agreed to finalise a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) at the earliest, which will boost bilateral trade to $ five billion in the coming years. The Turkish premier also announced $ 20 million assistance for rehabilitation of displaced people. Cemented by commonalities of culture, religion, economy, regional and national interests, brotherly bilateral ties with Turkey will strengthen our country’s international diplomatic position and will uplift its stature in international politics. It is hoped that the government will keep up its promising foreign policy vision to best serve the national interest.

AFIA MALIK

Lahore