Turkish embassy honours Allama Iqbal

Islamabad:Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s philosophy, which praised the spirit of reform in Türkiye and encouraged a modern, forward-looking Muslim society, was recalled with respect at a commemorative event hosted by the Turkish Embassy in Islamabad to mark the poet’s birth anniversary.

The gathering, titled ‘Muhammad Iqbal: The Great Poet of the East’ brought together diplomats, scholars and cultural figures from both countries to reflect on Iqbal’s enduring impact on the intellectual landscape of the Muslim world, including Türkiye.

Before the formal proceedings, the Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Centre inaugurated a photo exhibition titled Common Heroes. Ambassador of Türkiye to Pakistan Dr Irfan Neziroglu opened the exhibition with Chairman of the Rahmatul lil Alamin Authority Khursid Ahmad Nadeem, Chairman of the Iqbal Council Zulfiqar Cheema and Prof Dr Halil Toker, Türkiye Coordinator of Yunus Emre Cultural Centres in Pakistan.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Dr Irfan Neziroglu said Iqbal’s admiration for Türkiye’s journey of progress and renewal remains a point of connection between the two nations. He said Iqbal’s thought continues to inspire debate, learning and cultural understanding across the Muslim world.

Khursid Ahmad Nadeem highlighted Iqbal’s deep affection for Türkiye, reflected in his poetry and writings, where he supported the spirit of ijtihad and the reforms that shaped the foundation of the modern Turkish Republic. He said Iqbal viewed Türkiye as a model of revival based on knowledge, confidence and a strong sense of identity.