ISTANBUL / ISLAMABAD _Turkey marked its 102nd Republic Day with nationwide celebrations filled with color, pride, and emotion, honoring more than a century of resilience, unity, and progress. Streets, landmarks, and public spaces across the country were illuminated in red and white as citizens celebrated the founding of the Republic on October 29, 1923, under the visionary leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
Nationwide Celebrations and Patriotic Festivities
From Ankara to Istanbul, the spirit of the Republic echoed across the nation. At Istanbul Airport, thousands of Turkish citizens and foreign visitors gathered to celebrate not only Republic Day but also the airport’s seventh anniversary. Patriotic songs, fireworks, and national flags turned the event into a vivid symbol of national pride and unity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Message
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt congratulations to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the people of Turkey. Commending Turkey’s progress and economic growth, he said Pakistan takes great pride in the achievements of its Turkish brothers.
He emphasized that Pakistan-Türkiye relations transcend economic cooperation; they are rooted in shared values, faith, and a deep historical bond. The Prime Minister added that under President Erdoğan’s leadership, both nations are witnessing a new era of collaboration and mutual respect.
President Asif Ali Zardari’s Felicitations
President Asif Ali Zardari also congratulated the Turkish leadership and people, describing the Turkish nation’s determination as a guiding light for the world.
He highlighted Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s vision in shaping modern Turkey and recalled that leaders like Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah drew inspiration from the Turkish struggle for independence.
President Zardari reaffirmed that Pakistan and Türkiye’s friendship is anchored in faith, shared history, and solidarity.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s Greetings
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif joined in extending warm wishes to the Turkish people and President Erdoğan. She described Turkey as a “brotherly nation” whose happiness Pakistan shares wholeheartedly.
She said that growing cooperation in religion, culture, trade, and tourism continues to bring both countries closer together and expressed her hope that the enduring bond between Pakistan and Türkiye will flourish further in the years ahead.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s Remarks
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi congratulated the Turkish nation, calling Republic Day a reflection of Turkey’s courage, independence, and unity.
He praised President Erdoğan’s leadership in steering Turkey through challenges toward new heights of progress. The minister also lauded Turkey’s consistent and principled support for Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, calling it a testament to the brotherly ties between the two nations.
Public Celebrations Across Turkey
Public enthusiasm was on full display throughout Turkey. In Istanbul, the national flag waved proudly atop the airport’s iconic Air Traffic Control Tower, while in the eastern region’s Rainbow Hills, hundreds of citizens marched with flags, singing the national anthem in unison. The celebrations symbolized Turkey’s deep-rooted pride and the spirit of unity that has defined its people for over a century.
Commemorating a Century of Courage and Progress
Every year, October 29 serves as a reminder of the Republic’s enduring spirit built on the principles of freedom, democracy, and resilience. As Turkey celebrates its 102nd Republic Day, the nation stands tall as a bridge between history and modernity, while its friendship with Pakistan continues to grow stronger with time.
