The Antalya Diplomacy Forum commenced in Türkiye, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan arriving to take part in the proceedings.
Turkish media reported that the Azerbaijan president and the Libya's prime minister were also present alongside the two leaders. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa attended the opening session of the forum. Speaking on the occasion, he said a constitutional declaration would be issued to address the political vacuum in Syria.
He said elections would follow for the formation of a parliament after the declaration. Over the next five years, Syria would undergo a census and other necessary processes.
The Syrian president noted that the country had faced a major crisis of internal and external displacement, adding that it was essential to document all matters afresh.
He said the constitutional declaration would pave the way for elections and a reconstruction process.
Separately, Senior Adviser to the US President for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF 2026) in Antalya, Türkiye.
Senior Advisor to the U.S. President for Arab and African Affairs, H.E. Mr. Massad Boulos calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, on the sidelines of the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF 2026) in Antalya, Türkiye. 17 April, 2026. pic.twitter.com/rlR7kseBcR
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) April 17, 2026
During the meeting, the prime minister conveyed his regards for President Donald Trump and recalled his cordial interactions with him. He reiterated appreciation for President Trump’s leadership, which led to the ceasefire between Pakistan and India last year when both countries stood on the brink of war.
The prime minister also commended President Trump for his role in the ceasefire in Lebanon.
The two sides discussed regional developments, including Pakistan’s peace efforts that contributed to the ceasefire as well as the Islamabad Talks.
The prime minister emphasised the importance of strengthening Pakistan–U.S. bilateral relations, particularly in economic and trade cooperation, along with matters of mutual interest in multilateral diplomacy.
Boulos conveyed greetings from President Donald Trump and acknowledged Pakistan’s constructive role in regional stability. He reiterated the United States’ interest in deeper engagement with Pakistan on shared priorities, including counter-terrorism, economic development, and global challenges.
Deputy Prime Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, and SAPM Syed Tariq Fatemi also attended the meeting.
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