Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Islamabad Celebrates May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day
Islamabad– 19 May 2026 (Adnan Hameed) : Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Islamabad celebrated the May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day with a special event.
The event was attended by Türkiye’s Ambassador to Islamabad İrfan Neziroğlu, Chairman of the Pakistan Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Khan, Representative of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in Islamabad Buket Kop, Education Counsellor of Türkiye’s Embassy in Islamabad Dr. Mehmet Toyran, as well as Turkish citizens and Pakistani students.
The program began with the Turkish National Anthem, followed by various performances presented by students.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Neziroğlu stated that on May 19, 1919, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk went to Samsun and launched the Turkish War of Independence, marking the beginning of the journey toward sovereignty, freedom, and the establishment of the Republic, says press note.
Neziroğlu emphasized that beyond its historical significance, May 19 symbolizes hope, resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in the future. He noted that Atatürk dedicated this meaningful day to the youth, recognizing them as the guardians of peace, progress, and national values.
Commemorating this historic day, Neziroğlu expressed gratitude for the solidarity and support shown by Muslims in this region, especially in Pakistan, during the Turkish War of Independence. He underlined that this support remains one of the strongest historical foundations of the eternal friendship and brotherhood between Türkiye and Pakistan.
Atatürk and Muhammad Ali Jinnah Continue to Inspire Both Nations.
Neziroğlu pointed out that the visions of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and Pakistan’s founding leader Muhammad Ali Jinnah continue to inspire both countries. He stated that the exceptional brotherly relationship between the two nations, built on mutual respect, shared values, and longstanding solidarity, will continue.
He added that special importance is being given to strengthening interaction between the younger generations of both countries in the fields of education, culture, sports, and innovation, emphasizing that the future of Turkish-Pakistani brotherhood will be shaped by the youth.
Counsellor Toyran also stated that May 19, 1919, marks the beginning of Türkiye’s struggle for independence under the leadership of the Great Leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and celebrated the 107th anniversary of this historic day and the Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day.
Toyran noted that this date coincided with the early days of the Khilafat Movement and said “Today, we feel very fortunate to celebrate this important day in our second homeland together with our Turkish and Pakistani brothers and sisters.”
