Islamabad, July 16, 2024, The Europe Today: On 15th July 2024, Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director of the Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future, participated as a keynote speaker in the commemoration ceremony for the 8th anniversary of the 2016 defeated coup attempt in Turkiye. The event was arranged at the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye at Islamabad and was attended by a large number of people including Ahmed Naseem Warriach, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan.
Addressing the event, Turkiye’s Ambassador Dr. Mehmet Paçacı stated that this year’s ceremony for Democracy and National Unity Day centered around the theme of “Victory of the Nation.” He highlighted that it has been eight years since the coup attempt orchestrated by the Fethullah Gulen Terrorist Organization (FETO), which resulted in the martyrdom of 251 citizens and injuries to over 2000 others. Dr. Paçacı described FETO as not only a terrorist organization but also an espionage entity with cult-like characteristics, initially presenting itself as a religious movement promoting education and inter-religious dialogue.
However, it concealed its malevolent intentions through systematic infiltration into the military, law enforcement, judiciary, and various government institutions over decades, culminating in the full-scale plot unleashed on July 15, 2016.
Ambassador Paçacı credited the Turkish people for thwarting the threat posed by FETO that night, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to their sovereignty and readiness to defend the state and its democratic achievements.
Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram stated that the events of July 15th serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic principles
Thousands of civilians courageously took to the streets to halt the coup attempt, with prayers for the martyrs and gratitude extended to veterans and distinguished guests. Highlighting the international threat posed by FETO, Ambassador Paçacı underscored its ambitions to influence political and economic spheres, operating without regard for host countries’ laws and functioning akin to a criminal and intelligence organization. He praised Pakistan for swiftly acting against FETO affiliates following the treacherous coup attempt, noting Pakistan’s designation of FETO as a proscribed organization in December 2018. He reaffirmed Turkiye’s resolute stance against the FETO International Network and emphasized the universal fight against terrorism, asserting that terrorism transcends language, religion, and race. Ambassador Paçacı concluded by honoring Turkiye’s historic leaders, including Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and expressing gratitude to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for his leadership during the coup attempt.
Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram stated that the events of July 15th serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic principles and preserving the unity of the nation. He emphasized that the entire nation stood against heavily armed plotters and, with the support of the majority of the military and police forces, quashed the coup attempt in less than 24 hours. The courage and bravery of the martyrs remain vivid in our minds and will continue to inspire future generations.
Mr. Khalid affirmed that Pakistan, as Turkey’s steadfast ally, stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the Turkish people, paying tribute to the heroes who laid down their lives for the security and stability of their beloved nation. He praised the determination and willpower displayed by the people of Turkiye, calling it truly inspirational and a beacon of hope for many around the world.
Speaking on the occasion, Pakistan’s Additional Foreign Secretary for West Asia and Afghanistan, Ahmad Naseem Warriach, who was also the chief guest, remarked that on July 15, 2016, the entire world witnessed the courage and bravery of the heroes and people of Turkiye. “They demonstrated their resilience and the strength of their democracy. It is their contribution that we see continuing with the progress of Turkiye.” He reiterated Pakistan’s firm solidarity with Turkiye and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to their shared vision for peace, progress, and prosperity for both countries.
