ANKARA: The Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara held a ceremony to commemorate the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, bringing together Turkish parliamentarians, diplomats, academics, think tank representatives, media professionals and members of the Pakistani community in Türkiye.

The event focused on regional peace, diplomacy and Pakistan-Türkiye relations, while also paying tribute to the Pakistan Armed Forces for their role during Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos.

Among the attendees were Turkish Member of Parliament Burhan Kayatürk, Ankara Bilim University Rector Prof. Dr. Yavuz Demir, President of the Geostrategic Foresight Institute Dr. Güray Alpar, former Ambassador Numan Hazar, officials from the Turkish Foreign Ministry and members of civil society.

Addressing the ceremony, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Türkiye Dr. Yousaf Junaid said Pakistan remained committed to international law, peace and responsible conduct while exercising its right to self-defence during Marka-e-Haq.

He said Pakistan consistently advocated dialogue and de-escalation while remaining prepared to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The ambassador also thanked the Turkish government, people and media for their support during the period of tensions.

Turkish parliamentarian Burhan Kayatürk reaffirmed Türkiye’s support for Pakistan and stressed the importance of defence capabilities in maintaining peace and preventing conflict through deterrence.

Dr. Güray Alpar highlighted the importance of diplomacy, international law and peaceful dialogue in resolving regional disputes, including the Jammu and Kashmir issue. He also said critical resources such as water should not be used as a weapon.

Former Ambassador Numan Hazar said lasting peace could only be achieved through diplomacy, dialogue and implementation of relevant United Nations resolutions.

The ceremony concluded with prayers for peace, stability and prosperity in Pakistan.

Also read: Lahore Marks First Anniversary of “Maarka-e-Haq” and “Bunyan-un-Marsoos