Pakistan-Turkiye Friendship: A Timeless Bond Strengthened Through Culture and Heritage
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage, and Culture, Attaullah Tarar, reaffirmed the unshakable friendship between Pakistan and Turkiye, emphasizing the centuries-old bonds that continue to grow stronger. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Yunus Emre Institute, Turkish Culture Center, at Allama Iqbal Open University on Thursday, the minister highlighted the shared history, culture, and religious ties between the two nations.
Tarar traced the roots of Pakistan-Turkiye friendship to historical events such as the Khilafat Movement, where Muslims of the subcontinent extended heartfelt support to their Turkish brothers. “Our elders told touching stories of donations and sacrifices made during that period,” he recalled.
The minister praised the mutual respect and warmth that Pakistanis and Turks share, mentioning how visitors to Turkiye often return with stories of unparalleled hospitality.
Highlighting the enduring relevance of Yunus Emre’s teachings, Tarar paid tribute to the great Sufi poet and philosopher, whose legacy continues to inspire. He also acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Halil Toker, Director of the Yunus Emre Institute in Pakistan, for fostering cultural ties.
During his recent visit to Turkiye, Tarar met with Dr. Fahrettin Altun, Head of Presidential Communications, to discuss enhancing cooperation in arts and culture. He noted the popularity of Turkish television dramas in Pakistan and proposed dubbing classic PTV dramas for Turkish audiences.
Tarar also shared lesser-known historical connections, such as the symbolic grave of Allama Iqbal at Maulana Rumi’s mausoleum in Konya, which signifies the philosophical bond between the two great thinkers.
He expressed optimism that the Yunus Emre Institute would serve as a bridge for cultural exchanges, fostering deeper understanding and strengthening people-to-people ties. The minister stressed the need for literary conferences, seminars, and joint efforts to promote tourism and the teachings of Allama Iqbal and Yunus Emre.
Reiterating the eternal nature of Pakistan-Turkiye friendship, Tarar vowed to promote peace, tolerance, and harmony globally through collaborative cultural initiatives.
