The capital city of Pakistan wore a dazzling shade of red on Tuesday night as it joined in the celebrations marking the 102nd Republic Day of Türkiye, symbolizing the deep-rooted brotherhood and shared history between the two nations.
In a very rare moment, the entire city was illuminated in the colors of another nation’s flag, the Turkish red and white. Iconic landmarks, including the Parliament House, Presidency, Supreme Court, Pakistan Monument, One Constitution Avenue, and Serena Hotel were bathed in red light. Streets and markets across Islamabad fluttered with Turkish flags, creating a festive and emotional atmosphere.
The grand illumination was organized by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) as a gesture of friendship and solidarity with Türkiye. Speaking about the occasion, CDA officials said the initiative aimed to celebrate “a century of Turkish resilience, progress, and friendship with Pakistan.”
On the diplomatic front, a central ceremony was hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Islamabad, attended by the Prime Minister of Pakistan, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and prominent figures from civil society. The event featured speeches highlighting the enduring Pakistan–Türkiye strategic partnership, rooted in shared faith, mutual respect, and decades of cooperation in defense, education, and culture.
Historically, Pakistan and Türkiye have stood by each other in times of trial, from Pakistan’s support during the Turkish War of Independence to Türkiye’s unwavering solidarity during Pakistan’s humanitarian crises and, most recently, its firm stance alongside Pakistan amid regional tensions with India.
Locals expressed heartfelt joy, describing the gesture as a “symbol of love and unity” between two nations that share not just diplomatic ties but also a deep emotional bond.
As Islamabad glowed red, it not only celebrated Türkiye’s Republic Day but also reaffirmed that the “brotherhood between Pakistan and Türkiye is not bound by geography, it is bound by heart and history.”
