Türkiye marks 101 years in Karachi with tribute to Pakistan ties

In a glowing ceremony in Karachi, Türkiye’s Consul General Jezal Cemal Sangu warmly welcomed guests, commemorating the 101st anniversary of Türkiye’s Republic Day with a message of pride and hope. “I cordially welcome all of you and greet you with my utmost feelings, love, and respect,” he stated.

Reflecting on Türkiye’s journey from the Ottoman Empire to a secular, democratic state, Sangu paid tribute to the vision of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Türkiye’s founding father, whose principles shaped the nation’s path forward. Sangu spoke passionately about Türkiye’s century-long journey as a nation resilient in its identity, one that serves as a bridge between East and West.

“Türkiye of today stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its people,” he remarked, emphasizing that Türkiye has grown through unity, innovation, and its embrace of diverse cultures.

Recalling Türkiye’s challenges over the years, Sangu highlighted the unwavering love of its people for democracy and freedom. “It’s a love that transcends borders, languages, and cultures,” he noted, describing how this collective dedication has driven Türkiye’s progress.

Sangu also reiterated President Erdoğan’s vision of a Türkiye built on shared joy, prosperity, and hope, aiming for a future where cooperation flourishes.

The event, attended by Sindh government officials, diplomats, business figures, and military personnel, celebrated Türkiye’s legacy alongside Pakistan.

Among the attendees were Governor Sindh Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Member of Sindh Assembly Faryal Talpur, Speaker Sindh Assembly Syed Owais Shah, Ministers, Zia ul Hassan Lenjhar, Syed Sardar Shah, Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, Dr. Rüdiger Lotz, the German Consul General, French Consul General Christian Testot, Thailand, Consul General of Malaysia Herman Hardynata Ahmad, Teguh Wiweko, Consul General of Indonesia, Chinese Consul General Yang Yundong, Vice Consul General of UAE Abdullah Bakheet, Acting Consul General of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Abdul Rehman Saad, Consul General of Oman, Eng. Sami Abdullah Al Khanjari, Iranian Counsel General Hassan Nourian, Deputy High Commissioner S. M. Mahbubul Alam Consul General of Bahrain Abdulla Ahmed Buqahoos, Consul General of Kuwait Salem AlHamdan, Consul General of Qatar Nayef Shahein R.M. Al-Sulaiti – military officials, reinforcing the close ties between Türkiye and Pakistan.

Reflecting on the unique friendship between the two countries, Sangu lauded their solidarity through natural disasters, noting how both nations support one another in times of need. “Our brotherhood is deeper than the ocean and higher than K2,” he stated, expressing deep appreciation for the longstanding connection.

The Consul General also emphasized Türkiye and Pakistan’s growing collaboration, highlighting strides in trade, defense, education, and humanitarian work. Türkiye Maarif Foundation’s 28 PAK-TÜRK Maarif schools, operating across Pakistan with over 30,000 students, were noted as a symbol of their shared commitment to education. Additionally, Türkiye’s scholarships for Pakistani students and the 5,000 Pakistanis currently enrolled in Turkish universities underline an enduring academic partnership.

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has also played a key role in Sindh, advancing projects in health, education, agriculture, and fisheries. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines have bolstered connectivity between the nations, turning Istanbul into a crucial travel hub for Pakistanis.

Economic collaboration remains a priority, with trade between the two countries reaching $1.3 billion last year. Sangu voiced optimism for this figure to climb to $5 billion, citing new avenues for cooperation in technology, renewable energy, tourism, and food industries.

Turkish investment in Pakistan, which surpassed $3.5 billion in sectors like energy and infrastructure, further illustrates this growing economic relationship. Defense partnerships have likewise strengthened, with several Turkish defense companies expected to attend Karachi’s upcoming International Defence Exhibition (IDEAS) in November.

Sangu conveyed gratitude for the friendship shared by Türkiye and Pakistan, underscoring how love and mutual respect have shaped both nations’ histories. “With this enduring love, we will continue to forge a path towards a brighter, more prosperous future,” he affirmed, thanking the attendees for joining Türkiye in marking a milestone of resilience, progress, and unity.