ANKARA, 12 October 2011: Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting in a meeting here today with Deputy Speaker of Turkish Grand National Assembly (TGNA) H.E. Mr. Mehmet Saglam discussed exchange of parliamentary delegations. She also requested him to mobilize Turkish parliamentarians to come forward and help their Pakistani bretheren affected by recent floods in Southern parts of Pakistan.
Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan said that Pakistan is keenly following the current debate in Turkish Parliament regarding legal and constitutional reforms and would like to take benefit from the relevant laws, particularly those promoting freedom of speech and expression. She said that it is gratifying to note that our bilateral relations are reflected in our close parliamentary linkages. H.E. Mr. Mehmet Saglam assured the visiting Minister of their full cooperation to provide relief to flood victims. He invited her to witness the proceedings of TGNA. Dr. Firdous and her delegation members were received with applause in the visitor’s gallery by the TGNA members attending the session.
She also met with Turkish Energy Minister Mr. Tanir Yildiz and apprised him of recent energy crisis in Pakistan. Dr. Firdous said Pakistan’s energy sector thus provides best opportunities for investors. The Turkish Energy Minister agreed to send a delegation of Turkish investors to Pakistan.
Later on, the Information Minister met with President of Turkish Red Crescent Society (Kizilay) Mr. Ahmet Lutfi Akar and updated him about latest relief and rehabilitation efforts made by Pakistan and international community. She emphasized on deeper collaboration between the Turkish and Pakistani Red Crescent Societies. She solicited Turkish support for building the capacity of Pakistan’s Red Crescent Society.
Mr. Akar on the occasion assured the visiting Minister about sending more medical supplies to Pakistan to help the maternal and neonatal healthcare requirements in the affected areas.
Photo caption: Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan and her delegation in a group Deputy Speaker of Turkish Grand National Assembly (TGNA) H.E. Mr. Mehmet Saglam at Turkish Grand National Assembly it Ankara on 12 October 2011.