In the wake of a four-day military skirmish with India, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has begun a significant diplomatic tour of four countries: Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan. The visit, scheduled from May 25 to May 30, is being seen as a strategic move to strengthen regional alliances and thank key partners who supported Pakistan during the recent conflict.
High-Stakes Meeting with Turkish President Erdogan
One of the major highlights of this tour is Shehbaz Sharif’s meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on Sunday. The leaders are expected to discuss bilateral relations, regional security, and joint efforts against terrorism. This meeting gains extra importance as India has initiated a boycott campaign against Turkish goods and services following Ankara’s vocal support for Pakistan.
Economic Fallout: India’s Boycott May Hurt Turkey
Following Turkey’s alignment with Pakistan, India imposed import restrictions on several Turkish goods. Experts estimate this could cause Turkey a potential loss of $315 million in trade. The meeting between Erdogan and Sharif could be an opportunity to form a united front and possibly plan a counter-strategy to India’s economic actions.
India-Turkey Relations: Growing Strain Post Military Support to Pakistan
The relationship between India and Turkey has deteriorated further due to Ankara’s increasing military and diplomatic support to Islamabad. During the recent Indo-Pak conflict, Turkey’s warship docked in Karachi on May 2, and a C-130 Hercules military aircraft landed in Pakistan just days earlier. Reports also suggest Pakistan deployed Turkish-made drones during the clashes.
Turkey’s Strategic Pivot in the Muslim World
In recent years, Turkey has attempted to position itself as a counterweight to Saudi Arabia’s dominance in the Muslim world. As part of this broader strategy, Ankara has strengthened ties with non-Gulf Muslim nations such as Pakistan and Malaysia. The growing Turkey-Pakistan axis offers mutual strategic advantages—Pakistan gains a powerful partner in West Asia, while Turkey expands its geopolitical influence into South Asia.
Diplomatic Gratitude Tour or Geopolitical Chess Move?
According to Pakistani news outlet Dawn, this four-nation trip by Shehbaz Sharif serves multiple purposes. Besides reinforcing bilateral ties, it is a chance for Pakistan to thank countries like Turkey and Azerbaijan for their open support during recent tensions with India. At the same time, it allows Islamabad to rally diplomatic momentum against its regional rival.
Strengthening the Turkey-Pakistan Axis
This visit could lead to a deepening of defense cooperation, enhanced trade agreements, and coordinated political stances at international forums. For both countries, the partnership offers mutual leverage in dealing with larger powers like India and balancing regional dynamics.
Strategic Takeaway
Shehbaz Sharif’s tour is not just a ceremonial visit—it carries clear geopolitical implications. It reflects Pakistan’s intent to solidify its alliances amid rising tensions with India and sends a message that it is seeking regional support beyond traditional channels. For India, it’s a sign that new power blocs are taking shape in South and West Asia.
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