Turkish envoy highlights education as key pillar of Pakistan-Turkey ties
ISLAMABAD: Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan Irfan Naziroglu has said that educational cooperation is playing a key role in further expanding the strong and historic relations between Pakistan and Turkey, and both countries are exploring new opportunities in this field. He expressed these views while addressing the Turkish University Fair 2026 held here in Islamabad.
The fair was organised by the Maarif Agency, supported by the Turkish Maarif Foundation and the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Turkey.
Ambassador Irfan Naziroglu said that the friendship between Turkey and Pakistan is not limited to diplomatic relations but is also rooted in strong people-to-people and educational ties. He reiterated the commitment to further strengthen educational cooperation so that students can access world-class education. Nine prominent Turkish universities participated in the fair, providing detailed information to students about various academic programmes, admission procedures and scholarships.
A large number of students, teachers and representatives of educational institutions from across the country attended the event, reflecting its significance and success. Other distinguished guests included the Chairman of the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, who termed such initiatives the need of the hour, stating that they not only create new educational opportunities for students but also promote international academic cooperation.
Leading Pakistani universities, including the National University of Sciences and Technology, FAST National University, COMSATS University Islamabad, University of Lahore, Lahore College for Women University, Foundation University Islamabad, University of Education Lahore and Riphah International University, also participated in the fair.
The event not only guided students but also provided an effective platform for meaningful exchange of ideas between Pakistani and Turkish universities. Important areas such as student exchange programmes, joint research projects and educational partnerships were discussed in detail.
The large turnout of students and teachers is clear proof that the trend of Pakistani students pursuing higher education in Turkey is rapidly increasing.
Turkey is currently hosting more than 380,000 international students from over 180 countries due to its world-class universities and diverse educational programmes. Continuing the tradition of previous successful editions, the Turkish University Fair 2026 once again proved its importance in promoting educational cooperation between Pakistan and Turkey and creating new opportunities. Syed Naveed Jamal
