Pakistan and Turkiye: Tarar calls for boosting cultural, people-to-people ties

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage, and Culture Attaullah Tarar has called for strengthening cultural and people-to-people ties between Pakistan and Turkiye. Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Center at Allama Iqbal Open University, the minister emphasized fostering mutual understanding by promoting the works of poets Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Yunus Emre.

Highlighting the historic bond between the two nations, Tarar proposed the formation of cultural delegations to enhance learning and exchange of ideas. “Pakistan and Turkiye share time-tested and deep-rooted ties. I will ensure every effort is made to strengthen these brotherly relations,” he said.

Earlier, the minister also praised the cultural and strategic relationship between Pakistan and China, stating, “Our friendship is as strong as the mountains we share. Both nations have taken significant initiatives to deepen this bond.”

Separately, the minister welcomed the recent convictions in the May 9 riots, terming it a pivotal moment for national security. Addressing the media, he lauded the military courts for convicting 60 individuals involved in attacks on sensitive installations, including Jinnah House and the PAF Airbase in Mianwali.

“This is a landmark day for Pakistan, as justice has been served to those who attempted to undermine our defence institutions. These convictions will strengthen the rule of law and ensure no one dares to repeat such acts,” Tarar remarked.

He highlighted the fair trial process, emphasizing that the convicted individuals had access to legal counsel, court records, and family meetings, and were not tried in absentia. He also noted that evidence, including video footage, proved their involvement in acts of vandalism and arson.

Condemning the destruction of national symbols, such as the burning of an aircraft associated with national hero MM Alam, Tarar accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of orchestrating these incidents as part of a “nefarious conspiracy” against the state.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to national progress, dismissing misinformation campaigns and foreign lobbying efforts as futile. “The nation is moving forward, and justice has prevailed. The martyrs’ sacrifices have been honoured, and the rule of law has been established,” he concluded.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2024