Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir engaged in a significant meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during his official visit to Turkiye. The Pakistan Army chief was warmly received by Mr. Erdogan at the Presidential Complex, with the Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hakan Fidan, also in attendance, as reported by ISPR (Inter-Services Public Relations).
This visit marks a vital chapter in the ongoing series of high-level diplomatic and military exchanges between Pakistan and Turkey, aimed at strengthening their deep-rooted historical ties. General Munir's itinerary included meetings with foreign and defense ministers, the commander of the Turkish General Staff, and leaders of the Turkish land and air forces.
Throughout these discussions, General Munir underscored the importance of enhancing defense collaboration and training cooperation between the two nations. He lauded the Turkish military's efforts in preserving regional peace and stability and commended the operational readiness of the Turkish Armed Forces.
The Turkish leadership expressed their appreciation for the support provided by Pakistan Army engineers, who collaborated with NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) teams during a devastating earthquake that struck Türkiye in February of the same year.
General Munir paid his respects to the revered leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk by visiting his Mausoleum in Ankara and placing a floral wreath in his honor. Additionally, he received a warm welcome and a Guard of Honour at the Turkish Land Forces Headquarters.
In a noteworthy recognition of his contributions to strengthening defense relations between the two nations, the Pakistan Army chief was honored with the Legion of Merit by the Turkish Minister of Defense and the commander of Turkish Land Forces. General Munir emphasized the enduring brotherly bonds between Pakistan and Türkiye, expressing Pakistan Army's unwavering commitment to support the Turkish Land Forces in various domains and reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the fraternal ties between the two nations