Turkish Minister Highlights Pakistan-Turkiye Bond During Visit to Lahore School

Turkish Minister of National Education Yusuf Tekin underscored the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Turkiye during a visit to the Government Kinnaird Girls High School, Empress Road, on Friday. Accompanied by Turkiye’s Consul General Dumus Bastings, the delegation received a warm welcome from Punjab’s Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare, Khawaja Imran Nazir, and other provincial officials.

Addressing a mask distribution ceremony at the school, Tekin expressed gratitude for the heartfelt reception by students and faculty. He highlighted the historical and emotional bond between the two nations, emphasizing, “This visit represents a step toward enhancing collaboration in education and other vital sectors. We will continue to strengthen the friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and Turkiye.”

Khawaja Imran Nazir lauded the improving ties between Pakistan and Turkiye under the Pakistan Muslim League-N government. He thanked the Turkish government for donating 100,000 N-95 masks, with 50,000 provided during the smog season and another 50,000 handed over during the visit. Nazir also presented a souvenir to Tekin as a token of goodwill.

Prominent attendees included Secretary of Schools Education Khalid Nazir Wattoo and Secretary of Health Nadia Saqib. Students greeted the Turkish delegation with flowers, cultural performances, and renditions of the Turkish national anthem and traditional songs.

The delegation toured the school’s advanced physics lab and smart classrooms, commending the state-of-the-art facilities. Tekin distributed masks among students and planted a commemorative sapling in the school’s lawn, symbolizing the growing partnership between the two nations.

The Turkish delegation expressed their gratitude to the Punjab government for its hospitality. Tekin reaffirmed his commitment to deepening ties in education and other areas, while Nazir highlighted Turkiye’s consistent support for Pakistan in times of need.

The visit concluded with ceremonial exchanges, reflecting the shared vision of both nations to foster cooperation and mutual development.