In a symbolic moment for Pakistan-Turkiye defence cooperation, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff of Pakistan, was awarded the Legion of Merit by the Turkish Armed Forces during his official visit to Turkiye. The award, presented by Admiral Ercument Tatlioglu—Commander of the Turkish Naval Forces—acknowledges Admiral Ashraf’s contributions to deepening naval collaboration between the two allied nations.
Strengthening Strategic Naval Bonds
The ceremony took place at the Turkish Naval Forces Headquarters, where Admiral Ashraf was welcomed with full military honors. His meeting with Admiral Tatlioglu focused on expanding professional cooperation and operational synergy between the two navies. Both leaders emphasized the growing importance of joint maritime strategy in a region marked by shifting geopolitical tides.
Key Defence Engagements Across Turkiye
Beyond the award presentation, Admiral Ashraf engaged in a series of high-level meetings with Turkiye’s top military leadership. He met with National Defence Minister Yasar Guler, Chief of the General Staff General Metin Gurak, and Fleet Commander Admiral Kadir Yildiz. These discussions centered on regional maritime security challenges and future opportunities for defence collaboration, especially in the context of joint training programs, reciprocal visits, and large-scale naval exercises.
Spotlight on the MILGEM Project
The visit also included a tour of the Istanbul Naval Shipyard, where Admiral Ashraf was briefed on the progress of the MILGEM project—a cornerstone of Pakistan-Turkiye naval cooperation. The initiative involves the co-development of advanced warships and represents a strategic leap in indigenous shipbuilding capability for Pakistan.
A Symbol of Enduring Military Partnership
Admiral Ashraf’s visit and the award recognition underscore the deep-rooted military ties between Islamabad and Ankara. With increasing joint projects and a shared vision for regional security, the two nations appear committed to steering their maritime partnership into new strategic waters.
