Pakistan’s Naval Chief Conferred Legion of Merit During Official Visit to Turkiye
Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, recently concluded a significant official visit to Turkiye, where he was honored with the prestigious Legion of Merit by the Turkish Armed Forces. The award was presented by Admiral Ercument Tatlioglu, Commander of the Turkish Naval Forces, in recognition of Admiral Ashraf’s contributions to enhancing naval collaboration and defense ties between the two countries.
Strengthening Bilateral Naval Cooperation
Upon his arrival at the Turkish Naval Forces Headquarters, Admiral Naveed Ashraf was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour. He later held a high-level meeting with Admiral Ercument Tatlioglu, where both sides exchanged views on matters of professional interest and discussed avenues for deepening cooperation between the Pakistan Navy and Turkish Naval Forces.
Meetings with Key Turkish Defence Leaders
During his visit, Admiral Ashraf also met with top Turkish defense officials, including:
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Minister of National Defence, Mr. Yasar Guler
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Chief of the General Staff, General Metin Gurak
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Commander of the Turkish Navy Fleet, Admiral Kadir Yildiz
These engagements focused on enhancing regional maritime security, strengthening bilateral defense relations, and promoting collaborative training and joint exercises.
Visits to Strategic Naval Facilities
As part of the official program, Admiral Ashraf visited:
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Istanbul Naval Shipyard – where he was briefed on the Pakistan Navy’s MILGEM project, a key symbol of Pakistan–Turkiye defense partnership.
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Golcuk Naval Base – to observe modern submarine design and construction facilities.
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Turkish Naval Ships – including TCG ORUCREIS and S/M PIRIREIS.
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National Defence University (NDU), Turkiye – for academic and strategic exchange.
He also paid homage at the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkiye, by laying a ceremonial wreath.
A Step Forward in Strategic Partnership
Admiral Naveed Ashraf emphasized the importance of continued collaboration through joint naval exercises, mutual visits, and training exchange programs. The visit is expected to significantly boost ongoing defense projects and foster stronger military-to-military relations between Pakistan and Turkiye—nations that share long-standing historical and strategic bonds.
