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ISLAMABAD: 26 Dec 2024 – Ambassador of Turkiye to Pakistan, H.E Dr. Irfan Naziroglu has said that Jinnah, was a reformer and a visionary who sought to build a modern, progressive state, rooted in the ideals of independence and sovereignty, like Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye and the great leader of our Salvation War. Jinnah admired Atatürk deeply, in 1938, following Atatürk’s passing, he referred to him as “one of the greatest men that ever lived.”
He was addressing the participants of a special event in connection with the 148th birth anniversary of Founder of Pakistan, Qauid e Azam, Mohammad Ali Jinnah at Turkish Embassy Islamabad.
At this occasion anthems of both brother countries were played and the guests paid homage to the leaders of both nations. Chairperson Pakistan Academy of Letters Dr Najiba Arif , senior journalist Farooq Adil also shed light on the topic. Prof Halil Toker of Yunus Emre Institute Lahore, Dr. Mehmet Toyran Advisor TC Islamabad MEB were also present.
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Ambassador in his keynote address, said , ” On this day, as we have gathered on the occasion of the 148thbirth anniversary of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, allow me to begin by extending my heartfelt gratitude to all of your presence today, as we collectively pay tribute to a visionary leader whose legacy continues to inspire generations. Jinnah’s legacy of visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to his cause, rightfully earned him the title of Quaid-i-Azam, the Great Leader.”
Ambassador noted that Quaid-i-Azam, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, with his noble and strong character, won the hearts of millions who rallied behind him in the struggle for Pakistan’s creation. Jinnah’s role was not just that of a leader, guiding his nation with ideals of Unity,
Faith, and Discipline, but also a beacon of hope for the future. With his steadfast determination, he inspired millions to keep fighting for their cause, fearlessly overcoming every challenge in their path.
“His guidance to achieve progress and modernization for Pakistani nation to be able to stand on their own feet, bore fruits so remarkably that to this day, at the crossroads of geopolitical turbulence, his legacy serves as a profound source of wisdom, Ambassador continued.
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H.E Naziroglu said, “I am very happy that one of the most famous street in Turkish capital Ankara is M.A. Jinnah street and here we have Atatürk street.”
He said , “Jinnah’s legacy has played an immense role in shaping our brotherly relations—which is truly rare, granted to very few countries in the world. This brotherhood, enriched by shared values and historical solidarity, is one that the world often looks upon with admiration.”
“Our exceptional ties, forged not only in our common values but also in the vision of our great leaders, are built on shared sacrifices and historic events that have bound us together. This is a genuine bond of fraternity, one rooted in the hearts of our people and built on a foundation of solidarity, continues to grow stronger with each passing day. In other words, this constitutes an eternal brotherhood, Ambassador added.
“As Quaid e Azam said “time is running out”. We must work very hard to institutionalise our relationship. We will unite our knowledge, experience, power and work will work hand in hand for the brighter future of Türkiye and Pakistan and also for more peaceful world, H.E Naziroglu concluded.
