Turkey's Republic Day celebrated in Pakistan

By Islamuddin Sajid

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (AA) - The Turkish embassy in Islamabad hosted a reception Tuesday evening marking the 96th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey.

Pakistan’s Minister for Power and Petroleum Omar Ayub Khan was the chief guest at the occasion along with diplomats, parliamentarians, civil and military officials, businesspeople and religious scholars.

The national anthems of Turkey and Pakistan were played and a cake was also served for the occasion.

"On behalf of the people and government of Pakistan, I congratulate the Turkish people and government on this historic day," Khan said.

“Turkey and its great people will always carry a special place in our hearts as we share a common religion, heritage and culture, and our hearts and emotions are one.

“What Turkey has achieved, we Pakistanis are proud of it," he added.

Turkey’s Ambassador to Pakistan Mustafa Yurdakul welcomed and thanked the guests.

He also read out a message from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan calling the day a significant milestone in the glorious history of the Turkish nation.

"Today, we are proud and happy to commemorate the proclamation of our Republic and pay tribute to the architects of modern Turkey, notably Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkey. Our unwavering commitment to maintain a democratic, secular and prosperous country goes on unabated,” Yurdakul said while addressing the gathering.

“Pakistan holds a special place for Turkey and Turkish diplomacy. Throughout history, our nations have always been with each other through thick and thin and have never denied their mutual support,” he added

The Turkish ambassador assured that Turkey will continue to stand side by side with the people of Pakistan in any time of need in the future as well.