Minister Güler: Pakistan is our strategic partner with whom we share the same values

Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler attended the Pakistan Martyrs and Defense Day program organized by the Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara. In his speech there, Güler emphasized that Turkey-Pakistan relations are built on a shared history, bonds of brotherhood, and mutual trust.

Stating that Pakistan holds a meaning for Turkey that goes "beyond being a friendly country," Güler said, "For us, Pakistan is an inseparable part of our spiritual geography and a strategic partner with whom we share the same ideals and values."

The program began with the national anthems of both countries, a recitation of the Holy Quran, and Pakistani children singing songs. In addition to Güler, Chief of General Staff Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu, Pakistan's Ambassador to Ankara Yusuf Junaid, bureaucrats, representatives of non-governmental organizations, and Pakistani citizens attended the event.

Güler stated that the close military cooperation between the two countries is one of the strongest areas of their partnership. Expressing that relations have deepened in the fields of diplomacy, defense, security, economy, education, and technology, Güler pointed to the importance of joint training, exercises, personnel exchanges, and experience sharing between the armed forces.

Touching upon the special reception held by the Pakistan Army for the August 30 Victory Day, Güler thanked the Pakistani side and General Asim Munir for this gesture.

Stating that Turkey and Pakistan assume responsibility not only for their own security but also for international peace and stability, Güler said they are following with satisfaction Pakistan's diplomatic efforts toward ending the war between Iran and the US and ensuring lasting peace.

Güler stated that Turkey is acting in close consultation and coordination with its strategic partner Pakistan during this process.

In his speech, Güler also touched upon the Joint Defense Agreement signed in Mecca between Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, describing the agreement as "a historic step that further strengthens the deep-rooted ties and mutual trust of the three brotherly countries on a strategic ground."

Güler said they believe that the agreement, which is based on collective deterrence, will strengthen common security as well as advance interoperability in military matters and defense industry cooperation. He also noted that the first meeting of the Strategic Political and Defense Committee, established within the scope of the Mecca Defense Alliance, was hosted by Turkey.

Pakistan's Ambassador to Ankara Yusuf Junaid drew attention to the sacrifices of Pakistani soldiers in his speech. Junaid said, "Our soldiers continue to be one of our greatest national assets."

Junaid stated that Pakistani soldiers stand by the people not only on the battlefield but also during natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, expressing that their discipline, courage, and self-sacrifice are a source of inspiration for the country.

News Source: 12punto