Çiçek in Islamabad for talks with Pakistani officials

Çiçek held a private meeting with Mirza at the Pakistani National Parliament prior to a joint press appearance with his counterpart. Çiçek expressed pleasure at seeing a female politician heading the Pakistani parliament, and emphasized the close relationship between Pakistan and Turkey, pointing out the importance of parliamentary-level cooperation between the two nations to the further flourishing of relations.

“Turkey and Pakistan have similar problems. The best way to solve these problems is through the parliaments, which reflect the national will of the people. Inter-parliamentary friendship groups are crucial to relations. Friendship groups have an important role to play in mutually sharing experiences,” Çiçek said. Concluding the talks with Mirza, Çiçek proceeded to the Pakistani Senate, where he was greeted by Senate Chairman Bokhari.

Speaking in the Pakistani Senate, Çiçek said that the will of the people is of utmost importance in democratic systems. “We need to strengthen our democratic institutions,” Çiçek said. “Pakistan is my second home. We invite Mr. Bokhari to Turkey,” he added.