ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has recommended three senior Turkish ministers for one of its highest civil honours, the Sitara-i-Pakistan, in recognition of their contributions to strengthening Pakistan–Türkiye relations.
According to the Pakistan Civil Awards 2026 list, Pakistan has nominated Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Minister of National Defence Yaşar Güler, and Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat under the category “Services to Pakistan.”
The nominations highlight the growing importance of Pakistan–Türkiye ties in diplomacy, defence cooperation, and economic partnership. These areas form key pillars of the long-standing relationship between Islamabad and Ankara.
Overview of nominations
Pakistan’s decision reflects its focus on expanding cooperation with Türkiye. The three nominations cover foreign affairs, defence, and trade.
Hakan Fidan recognised for strengthening diplomatic ties
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan appears among the prominent international figures recommended for the award. His inclusion shows Pakistan’s focus on deeper diplomatic engagement with Türkiye.
Fidan has strengthened bilateral relations through active coordination on foreign policy, regional security, defence collaboration, trade, and strategic dialogue between the two countries.
Yaşar Güler honoured for defence cooperation
Pakistan has also recommended Türkiye’s Defence Minister Yaşar Güler for the Sitara-i-Pakistan. The award recognises his role in expanding defence cooperation.
Pakistan and Türkiye maintain close military relations. They conduct joint training, support defence industry collaboration, and hold regular high-level military exchanges. Güler’s nomination reflects Pakistan’s appreciation of Türkiye’s continued support in security and defence matters.
Ömer Bolat acknowledged for boosting trade relations
Pakistan has nominated Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat for his efforts to expand economic and commercial ties.
Both countries continue to work on increasing bilateral trade and investment. They have also committed to improving market access and creating new business opportunities.
Strengthening Pakistan–Türkiye partnership
The nominations of three serving Turkish ministers from key sectors underline the strategic depth of Pakistan–Türkiye relations.
The Sitara-i-Pakistan goes to Pakistani and foreign nationals for distinguished services to the country. Pakistan announced the awards as part of the 2026 Civil Honours on Independence Day.
Pakistan usually confers the awards on March 23, Pakistan Day. However, authorities may present them earlier if the ministers visit Pakistan before March 23, 2027.
If the ministers do not visit before the ceremony, an authorised representative may receive the awards on their behalf. The Ambassador of Türkiye to Pakistan will most likely represent them.
The nominations of Hakan Fidan, Yaşar Güler, and Ömer Bolat highlight the strong and expanding Pakistan–Türkiye friendship. They also reflect growing cooperation in diplomacy, defence, and economic development.
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