To gain an insight into the nature of the relationship between Pakistan and Turkey, there is perhaps no other thing as illus­trative as the words of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, which he uttered at the time of the appointment of the first Turkish ambassador to Pakistan in March 1948. To put it in his words: “Turkey has drawn our admiration for the valour of Turkish people and how your leaders have fought almost single-handed amid in Europe for your freedom. I really can as­sure your excellence that the Muslims of Pakistan will en­tertain sentiments of affection for your country and now Turkey and Pakistan both as independent countries can strengthen their ties more and more for the good of both.”

Since the 1950s, the relationship between Turkey and Paki­stan has prospered, rooted in a shared sense of brotherhood forged by a common religion, Islam. Both nations have a rich history of supporting each other on critical issues within international bodies such as the OIC and the UN. Notably, Turkey has consistently sup­ported Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir issue, while Pakistan has reciprocated by expressing solidarity with Turkey’s policies regard­ing Northern Cyprus. However, apart from these important areas of convergence, there has arisen, in recent years, another important area that is playing a crucial in bringing........

© The Nation