cm urges turks to invest in Punjab

Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif along with his delegation met the mayor of Istanbul, Kadir Topbas, and discussed matters regarding investment by Turk companies in bus rapid transit system, traffic management, solid waste management and other projects as well as launch of joint ventures. Chief Minister appreciated the pace of progress of Istanbul city and exchanged views about different projects of provision of civic amenities in major cities of Punjab on the same pattern and the scope of provision of professional services by Turk companies. He expressed gratitude to the mayor of Istanbul for taking personal interest in investment in various projects especially in Lahore and expressed hope that mutual cooperation will further increase in the days to come. While welcoming the chief minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif on his visit to Turkey, the mayor of Istanbul Kadir, assured him of full cooperation on behalf of himself and his colleagues. He appreciated the vision of Mr Shahbaz Sharif for the uplift of health, education and other sectors. Both leaders exchanged views on investment by various Turk companies in the provision of civic amenities and the potential launch of new projects as well as extending professional services. Earlier, the chief minister was presented with the guard of honour and salute by a smartly turned out contingent.
Later, the chief minister flanked by Istanbul Mayor, talking to media said Punjab government is thankful to the government and people of Turkey for always being generous in extending cooperation. He said he is happy to announce that an agreement has been reached between Istanbul Municipality and Lahore Waste Management and the mayor of Istanbul will personally inaugurate the project. He said agreements are also being signed for promotion of vocational education in Punjab which will set up new examples of mutual affection and brotherhood between the two countries. He said agreements between Pakistan and Turkey are a proof of unflinching friendship between Pakistan and Turkey and he gives credit for all these achievements to Turk President Abdullah Gul and Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan by virtue of whose wisdom and sagacity economic and trade relations are getting strengthened between the two countries. He said he is proud of the great leadership of Turkey and desires cementing of bilateral relations between Turkey and Pakistan in the future.