Ankara, 07th March 2024

PAKISTAN EMBASSY COMMEMORATES
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY WITH AN INSPIRING EVENT CELEBRATING WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

 To commemorate International Women’s Day, an event under the theme ‘Celebrating Women in Leadership’ was organised by Pakistan Embassy in Ankara with the participation of prominent international women leaders from diverse fields of life including politics, diplomacy, education, sports and media.

The event featured inspirational keynote speeches by Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkiye H.E Dr. Yousaf Junaid , Member Turkish Parliament H.E Serap Yazici Ozbudun, Vice Rector Ankara University Prof. Dr Yasemin Kepenekci, Spouse of Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister and President DMEDD (Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spouses Solidarity Association) Prof. Dr Sebnem Akcapar, renowned gender expert Prof. Feride Acar, President Spouse Head of Mission (SHOM) Association Ms. Louma Kabalan Moallem and Turkish archer Ms. Gizem Girismen, followed by an interactive session over lunch. Besides the speakers, the event was attended by 45 women leaders from different spheres of life.

In his speech, Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkiye paid rich tribute to the invaluable contribution of women to society, economy and culture. He stated that in Islam women are held in high esteem as they are the real architects of the society. While appreciating Turkish first lady H.E Emine Erdogan’s vision of ‘strong women, strong family, strong society’, the ambassador stated that it is important that we work together to dismantle barriers that still hold women back, shatter glass ceilings and create an equitable world for our future generations.

Speaking on the occasion, Member Turkish Parliament H.E Serap Yazici Ozbudun highlighted that it is imperative to establish comprehensive support mechanism to ensure that women have equal access to opportunities in every area from education to employment. Vice Rector Ankara University Prof. Dr Yasemin Kepenekci underscored the importance of education in setting the foundation for equal opportunity and ability to advocate for equal rights. President DMEDD Prof. Dr. Sebnem Akcapar reiterated on the importance of women empowerment and participation in professional life as a pre-requisite for sustainable growth. Prof. Feride Acar emphasized on engagement and support from men as a critical factor in achieving the goal of gender equality.

***