Sun May 25 17:59:10 UTC 2025: **Headline: Erdogan and Sharif Discuss Increased Cooperation Amid Tensions with India**
**Istanbul, Turkey** – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Istanbul on Sunday to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in education, intelligence sharing, and technological support in the fight against “terrorism,” according to Erdogan’s office.
The meeting comes amidst heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, following recent military clashes and accusations of cross-border terrorism. India has criticized Turkey for its alleged supply of weapons to Pakistan during the conflict, a claim Ankara denies.
Erdogan expressed solidarity with Pakistan following India’s military actions, urging both nations to exercise restraint and calling for an international inquiry into the Pahalgam attack, which India blames on Pakistan-backed militants.
Despite the long-standing economic and military ties between Turkey and Pakistan, the meeting has drawn scrutiny from India. An Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesperson emphasized the importance of sensitivity to each other’s concerns and urged Turkey to pressure Pakistan to end its support for cross-border terrorism.
In India, a boycott of Turkish products has emerged, with retailers and online platforms removing Turkish goods from their shelves. While the Indian government has not officially mandated a boycott, the revocation of security clearance for a Turkish aviation firm signals growing displeasure. The potential impact on the $2.7 billion in annual trade between India and Turkey remains uncertain.
First Piper 