ISLAMABAD: The Turkish Embassy in Pakistan hosted a grand dinner on the occasion of Turkiye’s 101st Republic Day, attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and other distinguished guests.
The event celebrated the enduring friendship between Turkiye and Pakistan, marked by mutual support and shared values.
The evening began with the playing of the national anthems of both nations. A video message of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was also telecasted during the event. In his message, he reaffirmed Turkiye’s commitment to combatting terrorism and emphasized the ongoing journey toward a strong and developed nation.
Addressing the event, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar extended heartfelt congratulations to the Turkish people on their national day. He expressed condolences for a recent tragic incident of terrorism in Turkiye and praised the Turkish leadership’s determination to face such challenges. “The journey to a strong and developed Turkiye continues,” he stated.
Dar highlighted the historical ties between the two countries, noting Turkiye’s unwavering support for Pakistan during difficult times, including assistance during devastating floods and the COVID-19 pandemic. He also acknowledged Turkiye’s recent backing for Pakistan’s leadership role among non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council.
The Deputy Prime Minister commended Turkiye for consistently raising its voice on international forums regarding issues such as the situation in Occupied Kashmir and the humanitarian crises in Gaza and Beirut.
He condemned the injustices and brutality committed by Israel in Gaza, affirming Pakistan’s solidarity with Turkiye in addressing these issues.
“Together, we can face the challenges ahead and move towards a brighter tomorrow,” Dar said, concluding with a hopeful message for the future of Pakistan-Turkiye relations. “May the friendship between our nations continue for the next hundred years—long live Pakistan-Turkiye friendship!”
The Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Irfan Neziroglu, also addressed the attendees, expressing gratitude for Pakistan’s solidarity in the face of recent challenges. He noted, “Turkiye and Pakistan are two souls of one mold.” Emphasizing the commonalities that bind the two nations, he raised a slogan of Turkiye-Pakistan friendship, highlighting the strength of their brotherhood.
Dr. Neziroglu expressed appreciation for the warm messages received from Pakistani citizens and thanked the leadership of Pakistan for its condemnation of the recent terrorist attacks in Turkiye. He reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to uphold peace and security, especially in a world where international laws are often disregarded.
The dinner not only celebrated Turkish National Day but also served as a powerful reminder of the deep-rooted ties between Turkiye and Pakistan, reinforcing their shared goals for peace, stability, and progress on the global stage.
