Turkey Salutes Pakistan Navy Chief with Top Honor

Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, was honored with the Legion of Merit by the Turkish Armed Forces during his official visit to Türkiye—recognizing his significant role in fostering strong defence and maritime cooperation between the two nations.

The prestigious award was formally presented by Admiral Ercüment Tatlıoğlu, Commander of the Turkish Naval Forces, in a special ceremony at the Turkish Naval Forces Headquarters, where Admiral Ashraf was welcomed with a guard of honour.

During the visit, Admiral Ashraf held high-level discussions with Admiral Tatlıoğlu, focusing on mutual professional interests and exploring avenues to expand bilateral naval collaboration. The talks emphasized shared commitments to regional maritime security and long-term strategic cooperation.

Admiral Ashraf also met with key Turkish defence leadership, including Minister of National Defence Yasar Guler, Chief of the General Staff General Metin Gürak, and Commander of the Turkish Naval Fleet Admiral Kadir Yıldız. The meetings underscored the importance of deepening military-to-military ties through joint training, frequent engagements, and enhanced interoperability.

A key highlight of the visit was Admiral Ashraf’s tour of the Istanbul Naval Shipyard, where he received a comprehensive update on the progress of the MILGEM project, a major initiative involving Pakistan Navy’s acquisition of modern warships from Türkiye. He also visited submarine construction and design facilities at the Golcuk Naval Base, gaining firsthand insight into the Turkish Navy’s advanced capabilities.

Additionally, Admiral Ashraf inspected prominent naval platforms, including the frigate TCG Oruçreis, the submarine Pirireis, and engaged with personnel at the National Defence University of Türkiye.

In a symbolic gesture of respect, Admiral Ashraf laid a wreath at the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye. He also held discussions with the Commander of the North Sea Area, further strengthening ties at the operational level.

The visit served as a testament to the growing strategic partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye, with Admiral Ashraf reaffirming the Pakistan Navy’s commitment to enhanced cooperation through joint exercises, professional exchanges, and defence industrial collaboration.

Source: Web Desk