Ankara, December 2, 2024 – The 77th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Türkiye was celebrated with a commemorative event at Pakistan House in Ankara. The event was attended by notable Turkish leaders, members of parliament, and dignitaries from academia, business, and media sectors.
Among the prominent attendees were former Turkish Foreign Minister and current Member of Parliament Mevlut Cavusoglu; Chairperson of the Human Rights Investigation Commission of the Turkish Parliament, MP Derya Yanik; former Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Recep Akdag; and MP Burhan Kayaturk, along with representatives from all major Turkish political parties.
In his address, MP Mevlut Cavusoglu praised the deep-rooted brotherhood and unwavering friendship between Pakistan and Türkiye, emphasizing the need for enhanced collaboration in facing shared challenges such as terrorism and regional instability. He commended Pakistan’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Dr. Yousaf Junaid, for his role in fostering bilateral ties and urged continued efforts to unlock the full potential of cooperation in areas such as trade, economy, defense, and security.
Chairperson Derya Yanik highlighted the strategic importance of the Pakistan-Türkiye partnership, underscoring the mutual affection that underpins their relationship. She reaffirmed Türkiye’s support for the legitimate right of self-determination for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and emphasized the partnership’s critical role in securing a prosperous future for both nations.
Former Deputy Prime Minister Recep Akdag echoed these sentiments, stating that the enduring strength of the Pakistan-Türkiye relationship is rooted in mutual solidarity and affection. He noted that the bond has withstood the test of time and continues to flourish across various domains.
MP Burhan Kayaturk reflected on the historic support extended by the Muslims of the subcontinent, now Pakistan, to Türkiye during its formative years, a memory cherished deeply by the Turkish people. He expressed confidence that this friendship, built on shared values and mutual interests, will continue to strengthen.
Ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid described the Pakistan-Türkiye relationship as “Iki Devlet, Tek Millet” (Two States, One Nation), founded on shared religious, cultural, and linguistic ties. He highlighted robust institutional mechanisms like the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) and the Strategic Economic Framework (SEF) as vital platforms for advancing this partnership.
Ambassador Junaid also emphasized the intrinsic linkage of Pakistan and Türkiye’s interests, expressing a commitment to working with Turkish counterparts to achieve shared goals of peace, security, and prosperity in the region and beyond.
The event underscored the historic and strategic significance of Pakistan-Türkiye relations, celebrating decades of partnership and laying the groundwork for further collaboration.
