Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, received Turkey’s prestigious Legion of Merit award during an official visit, recognizing his contributions to bolstering defense cooperation between the two nations.

The award was presented by Turkish Naval Forces Commander, Admiral Ercument Tatlioglu.

Upon arrival at the Turkish Naval Forces Headquarters, Admiral Ashraf received a guard of honor and met with Admiral Tatlioglu to discuss professional matters and enhanced naval collaboration.

The Pakistani Naval Chief also engaged with Turkish Minister of National Defence, Yasar Guler; Chief of the General Staff, General Metin Gurak; and Commander of the Turkish Navy Fleet, Admiral Kadir Yildiz. Discussions centered on regional maritime security and bilateral defense cooperation, with Admiral Ashraf advocating for increased military interaction through joint exercises, reciprocal visits, and training exchanges.

Admiral Ashraf visited Istanbul Naval Shipyard, receiving a briefing on the Pakistan Navy”s MILGEM project, a key bilateral defense initiative. He also toured Golcuk Naval Base, inspecting advanced submarine design and production capabilities.

Further engagements included visits to Turkish naval vessels TCG ORUCREIS and S/M PIRIREIS, and Turkey”s National Defence University. Admiral Ashraf also met with the North Sea Area Commander and paid respects at the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

The visit is anticipated to significantly enhance defense ties between Pakistan and Turkey, strengthening their historical, cultural, and strategic bonds.