ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Turkey will conduct joint ventures in the fields of art, culture and literature through exchange of artists and literary persons to further strengthen people-to-people contacts. This was agreed by Adviser to Prime Minister on National History & Literary Heritage (NH&LH), Irfan Siddiqui and Ambassador of Turkey to Pakistan Ihsan Mustafa Yurdakul during a meeting held on Friday to discuss the matters of mutual interests. Speaking during the meeting, Adviser to the Prime Minister Irfan Siddiqui congratulated Turkish Ambassador Mustafa Yurdakul on assuming charge as Ambassador to Pakistan and said, “Pakistan attaches utmost importance to its relations with brotherly country Turkey.” He said Pakistan and Turkey are enjoying exemplary relations based on mutual trust and brotherhood which is a great asset for both nations.Irfan Siddiqui said Pakistan had arranged a successful International Calligraphy Exhibition in Islamabad with the support of Research Centre for Islamic History, Art & Culture which had received an over-whelming response from art lovers. He said training of Pakistani calligraphers in Turkey will serve as catalyst for revival and promotion of this ancient glorious art. It was also decided in the meeting that translations of literature of both the countries will be conducted in each other’s language to enable people to understand the rich cultural and civilisational trends. Speaking during the meeting, Ihsan Mustafa Yurdakul said Pakistan was his second home and Turkish people had great respect and love for their Pakistani brethren. “It is a matter of great honour for any Turkish ambassador to get appointed in Pakistan and I feel pride while serving in Pakistan as ambassador,” he said. Published in Daily Times, March 10th 2018.