News Desk
Naveed Ahmed Khan
Islamabad: Türkiye commemorated its 102nd Victory Day with a vibrant reception hosted by the Turkish Embassy, attended by distinguished guests, including Turkish Ambassador Dr. Mehmet Pacaci and Defence Attaché Brigadier General Umut Onol. The event brought together a diverse group of attendees from the twin cities, including senior diplomats, journalists and prominent figures.
Lieutenant General Avais Dastgir, Chief of the General Staff of the GHQ, served as the chief guest, marking a rare appearance at a diplomatic event. Among the notable attendees were Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, former Chief Minister Salim Saifullah Khan, JUI Secretary General Senator Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haidri, and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador Atadjan Movlamov of Turkmenistan.
The celebration commenced with the national anthems of both Türkiye and Pakistan, followed by a ceremonial cake-cutting led by the chief guest and other dignitaries. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaisar Ahmed Sheikh also participated in the event, extending congratulations to the Turkish nation on this significant day. He expressed optimism for the future of Pak-Turk relations, emphasizing the solidarity between the two nations in overcoming contemporary challenges. The Minister further acknowledged President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s commitment to prioritizing Pakistan in his foreign policy.
In his address, Ambassador Dr. Mehmet Pacaci quoted President Erdoğan, highlighting the enduring spirit of the Turkish nation, which, through its remarkable victory, declared to the world its refusal to accept captivity and its unwavering commitment to independence. He reflected on the historical significance of August 30, 1922, stating, “Our nation, whose history is full of glorious victories, ended the liberation struggle, which it waged despite every kind of poverty and deprivation, with a clear and indisputable victory.”
Ambassador Pacaci further emphasized that the Great Victory serves as a testament to the Turkish nation’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity. He noted that the events of July 15, 2016, reaffirmed the unwavering will that inspired the Great Offensive, which continues to resonate in the hearts of the Turkish people. President Erdoğan’s message underscored Türkiye’s commitment to building a prosperous future, drawing strength from its rich history. He remarked that Türkiye is successfully navigating the challenges posed by the global economic crisis while continuing to grow its production capacity and exports. The President expressed confidence that the year 2023, marking the centenary of the Republic, would pave the way for a more powerful Türkiye.
As the celebrations concluded, the sentiments of pride and remembrance for the martyrs who fought for Türkiye’s independence were palpable. The event not only commemorated a pivotal moment in Turkish history but also reinforced the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between Türkiye and Pakistan. Happy Victory Day!
