Fasial Zahid Malik lauds Türkiye’s resilience, leadership and warm hospitality
Zubair Yaqoob Karachi
The Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Karachi, Cemal Sangu, has reaffirmed the strength of the Türkiye–Pakistan bond, describing it as a deep-rooted and time-tested relationship grounded in shared history, values, and spiritual traditions.
Speaking during a meeting with Faisal Zahid Malik, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Pakistan Observer, at the Turkish Consulate, Sangu said that although diplomatic relations between the two countries were formally established 78 years ago, the cultural and religious ties span over a thousand years.
He emphasized that both nations are united by centuries of common heritage and beliefs, making them more than just allies—calling them ironclad brothers.
During the meeting, Sangu highlighted the unwavering nature of Türkiye–Pakistan ties, which have remained strong through every trial and tribulation.
He expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s support of Türkiye’s position on Cyprus and reaffirmed his country’s consistent support for Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir.
Commenting on the celebrations held in Pakistan on May 16 to mark a national day of gratitude, he said the government and people of Türkiye proudly stand with their Pakistani brethren during every critical moment.
He also paid heartfelt tribute to Pakistan’s Armed Forces for their sacrifices in defending the nation.
Sangu further reflected on the spiritual and cultural connection between the two countries, particularly between the people of Sindh and the Turkish population.
He noted that Sindh’s rich Sufi tradition, reflected in the poetry of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, resonates with Türkiye’s own deep-rooted spiritual culture, represented by Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi.
He expressed his hope to strengthen these ties by bringing the people of Sindh and other regions of Pakistan closer to Turkish citizens through cultural and spiritual engagement.
In terms of bilateral cooperation, the Turkish envoy spoke of growing collaboration in multiple areas including defense, trade, education, and media.
He mentioned joint defense projects such as the MILGEM warships and pointed to a new goal of surpassing $5 billion in trade volume through preferential agreements.
He also spoke about Türkiye offering more scholarships to Pakistani students and noted the rising influence of Turkish culture in Pakistan through television series and the work of institutions like the Yunus Emre Institute.
Faisal Zahid Malik expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome extended by the Turkish Consul General and praised Türkiye’s historical resilience, modern leadership, and growing global stature.
He described Pakistan and Türkiye as bound by a brotherhood that is built not just on diplomatic protocols, but on shared values, mutual respect, and a common faith.
Malik applauded the Consul General’s active role in further cementing ties between the two countries during his tenure in Pakistan.
During the conversation, Malik offered the Pakistan Observer as a platform to highlight Türkiye’s development, success stories, and bilateral achievements.
He emphasized the importance of people-to-people contact and suggested cultural and business collaborations, including exhibitions, Turkish language programs, and more interaction between business chambers of the two countries.
He also spoke about potential joint initiatives in humanitarian work, disaster response, and youth exchange programs in journalism and leadership development.
Faisal Malik presented flower bouquet to CG Türkiye.
Both the Consul General and the Chairman of Pakistan Observer concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the bond between Pakistan and Türkiye through strategic dialogue, cultural diplomacy, and closer cooperation in media and education.
Malik extended an invitation to the Consul General to visit the media group’s offices and to participate in joint forums that could further enhance bilateral friendship.
He also conveyed best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the Turkish Republic under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
