The highly trained troops of Turkish Special Forces Command visited Tarbela, the headquarters of Special Services Group (SSG) last month. These troops are considered equal to those of Special Services Group (SSG) Commandos. The Turkish army is considered a huge force against European troops. One of the clashes with Greece has sealed the Turkish military's lead. The purpose of the visit includes briefings on mutual interests and exercises which will last 3 weeks. These forces will learn from each other the skills and strategies to counter the threats common to them. The military-to-military relationship is tied by the armed forces training exchange program inaugurated in 2000. Turkey is among the top ranking countries which are self-sufficient in making drones and fighter ships. Turkey also imports weapons from Pakistan.
Pakistan Army is considered an expert in counter-terrorism. Operation Enduring Freedom, Al-Mizan, Zalzala, Sher Dil, Rah-e-Haq, Rah-e-Rast, Rah-e-Nijat, Zarb-e-Azb and Raddul-Fasaad have shaped the army into single most experienced and successfully counter-terrorism force in the world. The Exercises by Pak-Turk Special Forces will include combing terrorism, face to face combing, search operations, surrounding and spotting the enemy, fire and move techniques, rescue operations, free fall operations etc. Pakistan will soon receive fighter ships from Turkey with reference to an agreement signed in 2018. Pakistan, Iran and Turkey will start trade through railway. This will benefit Pakistan directly and China indirectly. This trade through rail will open new trade routes for Europe and Pakistan will find a new route to Europe.
Dominating and manipulating the Islamic states, Saudi role and pressure in different Islamic states in recognizing Israel as a state is no more hidden now. It has created a sense of shame and ill will among many Islamic countries especially Palestine. Behind this role there is only one reason to counter Iranian influence in the region and claim the position. The race between Saudi Arabia and Iran to be sole leader of Islamic world has harmed Islamic states and spread civil war and restlessness. It has pulled both the states into civil wars going on in various countries. Israeli influence in Saudi Arabia and Gulf countries is growing day by day. Besides increasing influence of Iran, Arabian Kingdom will never want Turkey to lead the Islamic world in defense and diplomatic forums.
Pak-Turk relations are strong with PM Imran Khan’s visit to Turkey and in response a visit by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in February 2020. The people of Pakistan enjoy the gracious attitude of Turks towards Pakistanis and are often tilted as brothers. Pakistani Urdu dubbed Turkish television series Ertugrul Ghazi by PTV gained huge popularity in Pakistan and has made two nations close to each other. But in response to this series, KSA played Kingdoms of Fire to counter balance Turkish influence. Erdogan is one of world leaders who is honored to deliver speech in Pakistani parliament. Both the countries have announced dual citizenship under the citizenship initiative. This initiative elaborates citizens of Pakistan and Turkey would attain joint citizenship and dual passports.
On Kashmir conflict, Turkey’s stance is very clear. Erdogan has said that Turkey stands with Pakistan on this issue. He has openly supported and recognized Pakistan’s stance of Kashmir. Ankara recognizes Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir as part of Pakistan along with efforts to galvanize bilateral relations. Turkish ambassador’s stay in Azad Kashmir and support to Pakistan on all possible platforms during wars with India symbolizes Turkish great vision of united Islamic world.
In the international community, Turkey backs Pakistan in the Nuclear Suppliers Group. It also joins hands with Pakistan over financial issues. Turkey’s investment in Pakistan has found a favourable ground to continue investing. Both the countries have supported Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh issue and helped Azerbaijan to earn its freedom. This is a message of unity and brotherhood to all common enemies of Pakistan and Turkey.
The visit of the Special Forces leaves an impact to India, Israel, USA and Arab countries. The more Turkey gets closer to Pakistan, the more Saudi Arabia and UAE feel alerted. Al-e-Saud fears Turkey on the expiry of Treaty of Sevres and Lausanne. The concept of greater Turkey is actually the bone of contention especially for Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Kingdom does not digest the emerging prosperity and leadership of Turkey. It takes Turkey a competitor. Pak-Turk alliance is not favourable for those countries which consider them a threat which is a peace gesture. Greece, USA and France do not welcome Pak-Turk bilateral ties. Iran, Russia, China and some Central Asian states have shown good gesture on these exercises. For the western states, this relationship may enhance new strategic insights towards improvement. The role of Pakistan in Afghanistan has been well understood by the world countries. Turkey is well aware of this role. Pakistan’s role can benefit Turkey to maintain balance in both the East and West.
