A Bond of Hearts: PMYP’s Pak-Turk Friendship Week Tributes Decades of Solidarity
By Saeed Yousafzai
ISLAMABAD – In a heartwarming celebration of brotherhood that transcends borders, language, and time, the Pak–Turk Friendship Week celebrations held at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) brought together two nations bound by shared faith, history, and affection.
Organized by the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) in collaboration with the Yunus Emre Institute and the PNCA, the event served as a vibrant tribute to the enduring friendship and cultural harmony between Pakistan and Turkey—a relationship rooted in trust, respect, and an unbroken legacy of solidarity.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Irfan Neziroglu, Turkey’s Ambassador to Pakistan, expressed deep gratitude for the privilege of commemorating the 102nd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey alongside the people of Pakistan.
He specifically thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for his gracious support and participation. Dr. Nezirohlu emphasized that the Pakistan–Turkey relationship is founded on trust, brotherhood, and shared values that have remained steadfast through time.
Reflecting on history, the Ambassador recalled the powerful solidarity shown by the people of the Subcontinent during the First World War, particularly the moral and financial support extended to the Ottoman Empire by figures such as Allama Muhammad Iqbal—a gesture, he noted, that continues to be remembered with immense gratitude by the Turkish nation.
Speaking on the occasion, Huzaifa Rehman, Minister of State / Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, said it was a matter of great pride to celebrate the 102nd Republic Day of Turkey with the Turkish brethren.
He noted that Turkey’s journey of resilience, reform, and progress stands as an inspiration for the entire Muslim world. The state minister remarked that Pakistan and Turkey share a unique bond that “transcends diplomatic relations—a bond of hearts,” strengthened through faith, culture, and a shared vision for peace and prosperity.
Mr. Rehman extended warm felicitations to the leadership and people of Turkey, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to deepening collaboration in areas of youth development, education, and culture.
The week-long celebration featured enthralling cultural performances, including traditional music, folk dances, and art displays that highlighted the shared heritage and artistic diversity of both nations. The event also promoted online art courses.
The beautifully adorned stage bore the logos of the collaborating organizations—the PMYP, Yunus Emre Institute, and PNCA—along with portraits of the leaders of Pakistan and Turkey, symbolizing the deep-rooted partnership between the two brotherly countries.
The event concluded with a renewed pledge from both sides to further strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation in diverse fields. Participants agreed that the Pak–Turk friendship, rooted in mutual respect, shared heritage, and unwavering solidarity, will continue to grow and serve as a model of unity and partnership for generations to come.
