ISLAMABAD: Turkish ambassador to Pakistan Sadik Babür Girgin called on Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan and discussed various issues of mutual interests, including the future of the Pak-Turk schools.
The meeting came at a time when the Turkish government is pressurising Pakistan to close 23 Pak-Turk international schools and colleges. If happened, this would jeopardise the future of over 11,000 students and 1,500 teachers.
While talking to the journalists in Islamabad few days ago, the Turkish ambassador demanded that Pakistan shuts down all the institutions which were backed by Fethullah Gülen-inspired Hizmet movement. Imran denounced the expected closure of such schools and said that to do so would be disastrous for the country.
Sources also said that the PTI chairman said that Pakistan gave a great value to the bilateral and brotherly relations with Turkey. Imran told the ambassador that the people of Pakistan have a great respect for the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an for his active and unequivocal stance on the issues facing the Muslims across the world.
About the issue of closing schools, Imran said that Pakistan would respect the Turkish government’s decision, but he suggested an amicable solution of the issue so as to protect the future of the students as well as of the teachers. According to the press statement released by the PTI Central Media Department, the PTI chief and the ambassador discussed the issues of mutual importance during the meeting as well.
Imran commended the Turkish people for their trust in the political leadership and love for democracy, which they demonstrated recently by foiling an attempted coup. He said that democracy can strengthen the country with the support and backing of the people. He said, “Turkey is a role model for the rulers in Pakistan as well as for the whole Muslim world.”
Talking about the prevailing internal situation in Turkey, Imran said that he hoped that the current situation in Turkey would not have any negative impact on Pakistan.
