Pakistan’s Defence and Martyrs Day was observed at the Pakistani Embassy in Ankara with senior Turkish and Pakistani officials in attendance. Speakers paid tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces, reaffirmed close Pakistan–Türkiye defence and strategic ties, and underlined the need for a peaceful resolution of regional disputes, including Jammu and Kashmir. Turkey’s Minister of National Defence, Yaşar Güler, served as chief guest and pledged enhanced defence cooperation, while Pakistan’s ambassador, Dr. Yousaf Junaid, highlighted the day’s historical significance and recent military developments.
The diplomatic commemoration brought together a wide range of dignitaries, including Minister Yaşar Güler, members of the Turkish parliament Burhan Kayaturk and Serap Yazıcı, Chief of Turkish General Staff Gen. Selcuk Bayraktaroğlu, Commander of the Turkish Land Forces Gen. Metin Tokel, Commander of the Turkish Air Force Gen. Ziya Cemal Kadıoğlu, BBP Chairperson Mustafa Destici, former Presidency of Defence Industries chair Prof. Dr. Ismail Demir, senior Turkish civil and military officials, ambassadors and diplomatic corps members, defence and military attaches, media representatives, and members of the Pakistani community in Türkiye.
In his keynote address, Minister Yaşar Güler praised the deep, brotherly relations between Pakistan and Türkiye, particularly in defence and strategic cooperation. He paid tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces and expressed Türkiye’s strong solidarity with Pakistan on core issues. The minister reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to further strengthen defence collaboration through joint production, training, and counter-terrorism efforts, and conveyed condolences for the losses caused by recent floods in Pakistan.
Ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid stressed the importance of the day as a symbol of national unity, resolve, and bravery. He recalled the 1965 conflict, noting how Pakistan’s armed forces defended the country with the full support of the nation. Referring to Pakistan’s recent operation, Marka-e-Haq, he described it as a precise and powerful military response to unprovoked aggression that demonstrated Pakistan’s capability, readiness, and resolve while emphasizing restraint and precision. He underscored Pakistan’s desire for regional peace and said that durable stability in South Asia depends on a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Ambassador Junaid also thanked the Turkish leadership and people for their continued support for Pakistan and the Kashmiri cause, and praised the expanding strategic partnership between the two countries, particularly in defence cooperation and people-to-people contacts.
The event reaffirmed the annual tradition of observing Defence and Martyrs Day to honor soldiers who gave their lives for Pakistan and to renew the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its independence, security, and dignity.
