Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan and Turkiye’s brotherly relations continue to strengthen across economic, defence, and strategic fronts, marking a high point in bilateral cooperation.
Speaking at a ceremony celebrating the 102nd Republic Day of Turkiye in Islamabad, the premier lauded the leadership of both nations for their consistent efforts to deepen ties and “share their joys and sorrows.” He described modern Turkiye as a reflection of progress and resilience built on the foundations laid by Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, senior ministers, diplomats, and Turkish officials. Prime Minister Shehbaz praised President Recep Erdoğan as a visionary leader whose dynamic leadership has transformed Türkiye into a model of development for the Muslim world.
Highlighting the historical roots of Pakistan-Turkiye relations, he recalled how Muslim women from the subcontinent supported Turkiye during the Khilafat Movement by selling their jewellery, symbolising an enduring bond that predates Pakistan’s independence.
The prime minister said Turkiye has stood with Pakistan through every trial, from wars to the 2005 earthquake and 2010 floods, and continues to be a steadfast ally. He expressed gratitude for Ankara’s consistent support on the Kashmir issue and reaffirmed Pakistan’s backing for Turkiye’s stance on Northern Cyprus.
Referring to the recent conflict with India, PM Shehbaz praised the Pakistan Armed Forces under Field Marshal General Asim Munir and Air Chief Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu for their “decisive leadership,” while acknowledging President Erdogan’s solidarity with Pakistan during the period.
Concluding his remarks, the prime minister said the fluttering Turkish flags across Islamabad reflected how “our hearts beat with our Turkish brothers and sisters.” The ceremony ended with a symbolic cake-cutting, marking another chapter in the ever-growing Pakistan-Turkiye partnership.
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