The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on judicial cooperation with the Constitutional Court of Turkiye, marking a step toward strengthening legal collaboration between the two countries.
Earlier, the apex court had announced that it would host a high-level delegation from Türkiye’s Constitutional Court from April 6 to 9. The delegation is being led by its president, Kadir Özkaya, for the purpose of formalising the agreement.
The MoU was signed during a ceremony held at the Supreme Court in Islamabad, attended by Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi and Özkaya. Speaking at the ceremony, CJP Afridi expressed hope that the agreement would provide a forward-looking framework for collaboration between the two judiciaries.
He said the partnership would focus on the exchange of judicial knowledge and best practices, promotion of comparative constitutional jurisprudence, strengthening institutional linkages, and enhancing capacity building through joint programmes, research, and judicial exchanges.
He further noted that under the MoU, a joint working group comprising judges from the Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court would be established to ensure that cooperation remains active and meaningful rather than symbolic.
CJP Afridi highlighted that the visit of the Turkish delegation reflects the enduring and historic fraternal relationship between Pakistan and Türkiye, which goes beyond formal diplomatic ties. He said the agreement represents a shared vision to strengthen constitutional governance, uphold the rule of law, ensure judicial independence, and protect fundamental rights.
Emphasising the importance of global engagement, Justice Afridi stated that judicial institutions cannot function in isolation. He noted that common challenges such as rapid technological changes, evolving interpretations of rights, and complex constitutional questions require courts to engage in broader international dialogue.
He added that such agreements enable courts to learn from one another and enhance their collective ability to deliver justice. Concluding his remarks, he expressed hope that the MoU would pave the way for deeper understanding, meaningful exchanges, and a lasting partnership between the two judiciaries.
According to the Supreme Court, a key feature of the cooperation will be the professional development of the judiciary, particularly at the district level, through joint training programmes, academic exchanges, and exposure to comparative judicial practices.
The collaboration is also expected to support the integration of modern technologies into judicial processes, aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and access to justice. During the visit, the Turkish delegation is also scheduled to participate in high-level institutional interactions and engage with key stakeholders in Pakistan’s justice sector.