Ankara: The Pakistani Embassy in Ankara hosted a reception to mark Pakistan's Defense and Martyrs' Day, drawing a crowd that included senior Turkish military and government officials, diplomats, and members of the Pakistani community.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trkiye's National Defense Minister Yasar Guler attended the event as the chief guest. The reception saw the presence of prominent figures such as Chief of the Turkish General Staff Gen. Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, Land Forces Commander Gen. Metin Tokel, Naval Forces Commander Adm. Ercument Tatlioglu, and Air Forces Commander Gen. Rafet Dalkiran. Former Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Recep Akdag, Deputy Foreign Minister Haci Ali Ozel, D-8 Secretary-General Sohail Mahmood, military attach©s, senior Turkish officials, and members of the Pakistani community were also in attendance.
The ceremony featured a recitation from the Holy Quran, the national anthems of Pakistan and Trkiye, performances by students of the Pakistan Embassy International Study Group, and video presentations highlighting the significance of Defense and Martyrs' Day. Pakistan's Defense and Air Attach© Air Commodore Muhammad Asif Bhatti paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of the Pakistani nation and armed forces during the 1965 war with India, emphasizing Pakistan's commitment to peace while safeguarding its sovereignty and regional security.
Pakistani Ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid also honored the country's martyrs and underscored the contributions of Pakistani personnel in national defense, disaster relief, and UN peacekeeping operations. He reiterated Islamabad's stance on the Kashmir dispute, advocating for a peaceful resolution in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
During his address, Guler congratulated Pakistan on Defense and Martyrs' Day, honoring the country's martyrs and veterans. He highlighted the historical ties between Trkiye and Pakistan, showcasing Pakistan as a strategic partner and emphasizing the growing bilateral cooperation in defense and security. Guler also mentioned the Makkah Alliance between Trkiye, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia as a significant step toward enhanced strategic cooperation and regional stability.
The reception concluded with a group photograph and was followed by Pakistani cuisine and refreshments at the Pakistan Embassy residence.