ISLAMABAD, August 5, 2025 – Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, has been awarded the prestigious Legion of Merit of the Turkish Armed Forces, marking a significant step in the defence partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye .
Key Highlights:
Awarded by Admiral Ercüment Tatlıoğlu, Commander of the Turkish Naval Forces, Admiral Ashraf received the honour during an official visit to Ankara. He was welcomed with a formal guard of honour at the Turkish Naval Headquarters .
High-level discussions took place during the visit, including meetings with Türkiye’s Defence Minister Yasar Güler, Chief of General Staff General Metin Gürak and Turkish Navy Fleet Commander Admiral Kadir Yıldız. The main topics included regional maritime security and enhanced bilateral defence cooperation .
Advancing Pakistan‑Türkiye Naval Collaboration
Admiral Ashraf highlighted the need for frequent joint exercises, personnel exchanges, and reciprocal visits to deepen operational synergy between both navies .
Site Visits & Key Infrastructure
At Istanbul Naval Shipyard, Admiral Ashraf was briefed in detail on Pakistan’s MILGEM corvette project, which involves the construction of four vessels under technology‑transfer agreements with Türkiye. The first, PNS Babur, entered service in 2023 .
The Admiral toured Gölcük Naval Base, inspecting advanced submarine design and shipbuilding facilities. He also visited the Turkish warship TCG Oruçreis, the submarine S/M Pirireis, and the National Defence University .
Paying Respects & Symbolic Diplomacy
As a mark of respect, Admiral Ashraf lay a wreath at the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye. He also visited the Commander of Turkey’s North Sea Area as part of his diplomatic engagements .
Strategic Significance & Future Outlook
This visit is anticipated to deepen Pakistan–Türkiye defence relations, building on long-standing cultural, historical, and strategic ties. Turkish defence firms have supported Pakistan’s naval modernization, including upgrades to Agosta‑90B submarines and the provision of UAVs and equipment .
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