President confers Nishan-i-Imtiaz on Turkish general

Islamabad

President Mamnoon Hussain Wednesday conferred the award of Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) on General Salih Zeki Colak, commander of the Turkish Land Forces in a special investiture ceremony held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.

President decorated General Salih Zeki Colak in recognition of his outstanding services and contributions in strengthening relations between the armed forces of Pakistan and Turkey and for enhancing strategic cooperation between the two countries.

The special investiture ceremony was attended by Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif, Secretary Defence, ambassador of Turkey to Pakistan and high officials.

President said that Pakistan and Turkey enjoy close and brotherly relations which are growing stronger by each passing day. He reiterated Pakistan’s strong desire to further strengthen its partnership with Turkey in defence sector.

Speaking on the occasion, commander of the Turkish Land Forces said that strong brotherly relations between Turkey and Pakistan are rooted in history adding that the people of Turkey and their coming generations will always fondly cherish the help extended by the Muslims of the subcontinent during the Turkish war of independence. He thanked the president and the Government of Pakistan on being awarded with NI(M) and hoped that bilateral relations between the two countries would be taken to new heights in the future and both countries will collectively overcome the common problems of terrorism, refugees and border security.