The Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara, in collaboration with Ankara University, organized a cultural and academic event titled “Pakistan Türkiye Relations: Cultural Interaction from Khilafat Movement to Present Day.” The event brought together parliamentarians, academics, members of the diplomatic corps, students, and representatives of civil society to commemorate the longstanding historical and cultural relations between Pakistan and Türkiye.
The speakers included Ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid, Member Turkish Parliament Mr. Ali Şahin, Member Turkish Parliament Mr. Burhan Kayatürk, Prof. Dr. İrfan Albayrak, Dean of the Faculty of Language, History and Geography and Chairperson Urdu Department Prof. Dr. Asuman Belen Özcan at Ankara University.
In his remarks, Ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid highlighted the deep-rooted and enduring brotherly relations between Pakistan and Türkiye, founded upon shared history, cultural affinities, and mutual respect. He noted that the historical foundations of these ties date back centuries, including to the Mughal period in the Subcontinent, recalling that Babur, the founder of the Mughal dynasty, was of Turkic origin.
The Ambassador also referred to the close linguistic and cultural linkages between the two countries, highlighting that the national language of Pakistan, Urdu, derives its name from the Turkish word “Ordu” and contains thousands of words of common usage with Turkish.
Ambassador Junaid further acknowledged the valuable role played by the Urdu Department of Ankara University in promoting Urdu language and literature, as well as in strengthening cultural ties and people-to-people exchanges between Pakistan and Türkiye.
Member Parliament Mr. Ali Şahin shared his experiences in Pakistan during his student years and highlighted the warmth, hospitality, and affection extended by the people of Pakistan towards Türkiye. He noted that the friendship between Pakistan and Turkiye is a sacred trust from Allah Almighty and has no parallel in the world.
Member Parliament Mr. Burhan Kayatürk also reflected on his experiences in Pakistan as a student and emphasized the spirit of solidarity and friendship that continues to characterize Pakistan–Türkiye relations. He noted that the peoples of the two countries have consistently supported one another through thick and thin throughout history.
Prof. Dr. İrfan Albayrak underscored the importance of academic cooperation and cultural engagement in further strengthening the shared heritage and understanding between Pakistan and Türkiye.
Speaking on the occasion , Chairperson Urdu Department Prof. Dr. Asuman Belen Özcan reaffirmed Ankara University’s commitment to promoting scholarly collaboration and educational exchanges between the two brotherly countries.
The event also featured cultural performances by Pakistani students, including poetry recitations, Qawwali, traditional dances and cultural displays which were appreciated by the audience and reflected the richness of Pakistan’s cultural heritage.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the shared commitment of Pakistan and Türkiye to further deepen their historic friendship and expand cooperation in cultural, academic, and people-to-people spheres.
