Turkish Ambassador Celebrates Pakistan-Turkey Ties in Tribute to Allama Iqbal

“Pakistan-Turkey Friendship: In the Context of Iqbal’s Thought” held at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan, Irfan Neziroglu, highlighted the profound bond between the two nations. Addressing the audience during the event commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Ambassador Neziroglu stated, “Turkiye’s borders do not meet Pakistan, but Pakistanis and Turks are like one nation; their hearts beat together.”

The ambassador expressed the mutual sentiment shared by both countries, remarking, “Turks consider Pakistan as their second home, and Pakistanis see Turkiye as their second homeland. Turkey is Pakistan, and Pakistan is Turkey.” He also noted the scholarships offered to Pakistani students in Turkiye, with plans to expand the initiative.

Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, Vice-Chancellor of AIOU, spoke of the enduring relationship as a global model of friendship. He urged students to embody Allama Iqbal’s philosophy of “Khudi” (selfhood) for personal and national development. The event featured distinguished speakers, including Professor Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mazhar, Dr. Mehmet Tuyran, and Dr. Khalil Tokar from the Yunus Emre Institute, who underscored Iqbal’s profound connection with Turkey and the lasting solidarity between the nations.

The conference, part of AIOU’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, highlighted shared values and the longstanding mutual support between Pakistan and Turkey. The speakers called for passing down this legacy to future generations to strengthen ties further.