Consul General Sangu emphasized the deep-rooted friendship and cooperation between Turkiye and Pakistan, characterizing their relationship as one built on a shared commitment to peace and prosperity
By Zahid Karani
KARACHI: The Consulate of Turkiye in Karachi hosted a grand ceremony on Tuesday night to commemorate the 101st anniversary of the Republic of Turkiye, drawing a distinguished audience that included Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, MPA Faryal Talpur, and Speaker of the Sindh Assembly Syed Awais Qadir Shah. The event was warmly welcomed by Cemal Sangu, the Consul General of Turkiye in Karachi, who received guests at the Consulate.
In his address, Consul General Sangu emphasized the deep-rooted friendship and cooperation between Turkiye and Pakistan, characterizing their relationship as one built on a shared commitment to peace and prosperity. He noted that the two nations have always stood together, sharing both achievements and challenges. Sangu poignantly remarked on the solidarity exhibited during crises, such as earthquakes in Turkiye and floods in Pakistan, stating that the support shown was “unprecedented.” He proclaimed, “Our brotherhood is deeper than oceans and higher than K-2,” underscoring the profound bond that connects the two countries.
Sangu highlighted that Turkiye and Pakistan, while separate nations, constitute a singular entity through their historical and cultural ties. Sangu pointed out the significant strides made in educational collaboration, citing the presence of 28 Pak-Turk Maarif Schools in Pakistan, six of which are located in Sindh. These institutions serve approximately 30,000 students from kindergarten to high school, with the Turkish government providing scholarships to Pakistani students—250 scholarships awarded this year alone, alongside 5,000 students currently studying in Turkish universities.
The Consul General also discussed humanitarian cooperation facilitated by TIKA, Turkiye’s state-run agency for humanitarian aid and development. He revealed that the bilateral trade volume had reached $1.3 billion last year, with aspirations to elevate it to $5 billion in the near future. Turkish investment in Pakistan has already surpassed $3.5 billion, with expectations that it could rise to between $5 and $10 billion.
Looking ahead, Sangu announced that the upcoming International Defence Exhibition (IDEAS) scheduled for next month in Karachi would feature numerous Turkish defense companies, further solidifying the defense collaboration between the two countries. The event saw attendance from various dignitaries, including PPP Sindh president Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, provincial ministers, and consuls general from countries such as Germany, France, and Saudi Arabia, along with senior officials from the military and political leaders.
