ISLAMABAD, Wednesday, July 15, 2026 (WNP): Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Wednesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to its deep-rooted brotherly ties with Türkiye, saying the historic relationship between the two countries, built on shared sacrifices and mutual support, must be preserved and strengthened for future generations.

Addressing a ceremony marking the 10th Democracy and National Unity Day of Türkiye, the minister said the Pakistan-Türkiye relationship predates the creation of Pakistan and is rooted in a legacy of solidarity established by the Muslims of the subcontinent during Türkiye’s War of Independence.

“Our forefathers stood shoulder to shoulder with the Turkish people during their War of Salvation,” Tarar said, recalling the support extended by the women of the subcontinent for their Turkish brothers and sisters.

He noted that the stories of sacrifice, friendship and solidarity had been passed down through generations as a cherished inheritance.

“While growing up, we learnt about the contributions that have been made over time and decades. Even before Pakistan came into being, the Muslims of the subcontinent had an extraordinary sense of brotherhood with the people of Türkiye,” he said, adding that this bond had only grown stronger with the passage of time.

The minister said he had personally witnessed the remarkable expansion of bilateral cooperation through various official engagements between the two countries, highlighting growing collaboration in diverse sectors as well as increasing people-to-people contacts.

Referring to the national anthem of Pakistan, Tarar quoted the line, “Parcham-e-Sitara-o-Hilal, Rahbar-e-Taraqqi-o-Kamal,” observing that both Pakistan and Türkiye share the symbols of the crescent and the star, which represent progress, unity and shared aspirations.

Paying tribute to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, he praised his leadership in guiding Türkiye towards economic progress, military strength and national resilience. He said the confidence of the Turkish people in their leadership enabled them to courageously defend democracy during the failed coup attempt of July 15, 2016.

Speaking about Democracy and National Unity Day, Tarar described President Erdoğan’s call to the nation—announcing his return to Istanbul and urging citizens to stand united in defence of democracy—as the defining moment that inspired millions to take to the streets and defeat the coup plotters.

He paid homage to the more than 250 martyrs who sacrificed their lives while defending Türkiye’s democratic institutions, saying their courage ensured the triumph of democracy and constitutional order.

“The sacrifices of those martyrs did not go in vain. Today, from capitals around the world, including Islamabad, messages of solidarity continue to be sent to their families and loved ones,” he said.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s principled support for Türkiye on international issues, the minister said Pakistan had consistently supported Türkiye’s position on Northern Cyprus, while Türkiye had always stood firmly with Pakistan on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

Tarar also commended Ambassador of Türkiye to Pakistan Dr. İrfan Neziroğlu, recalling his courageous presence inside the Turkish Parliament during the bombing carried out by the coup plotters.

“I was deeply moved to see a young Dr. İrfan Neziroğlu standing courageously in Parliament while the building was under attack. His steadfastness reflected the resilience and determination of the Turkish nation,” he remarked.

Describing July 15 as one of the defining moments in Türkiye’s modern history, Tarar said the Turkish people had demonstrated extraordinary courage and left a timeless message for future generations that nations united in defence of democracy can overcome even the gravest challenges.

He expressed confidence that the sacrifices of the martyrs would continue to inspire Türkiye’s journey towards greater stability, unity and progress.

The minister also conveyed Pakistan’s gratitude to the Turkish leadership and people for their unwavering affection and solidarity with Pakistan, particularly during difficult times.

“The people of Türkiye have always welcomed Pakistanis with warmth and affection. Pakistan has always stood with its Turkish brothers and sisters, and it always will,” he stressed.

Concluding his address, Tarar shared a personal reflection, recalling his grandfather’s official visit to Türkiye in 1998 as President of Pakistan, during which he was received by the then Turkish President Süleyman Demirel.

“I still treasure the photographs from that visit. These memories and stories have been passed on to us through generations, and we hold this legacy very close to our hearts,” he said, reaffirming that the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Türkiye would continue to flourish for generations to come.