Pakistani Bikers Strengthen Pak-Turkiye Friendship Through Lahore-Istanbul Rally

In a remarkable journey that highlights the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Turkiye, a group of seven Pakistani bikers embarked on an adventurous expedition known as the "Lahore-Istanbul Rally." This journey, which spanned thousands of kilometers and took them through various cities, culminated in their arrival in Istanbul after 18 days of travel. The bikers aimed to strengthen the bonds of friendship between the two nations, showcasing the rich cultural ties that have existed for centuries.

Starting their journey from Lahore on October 11, the group, led by Mukaram Tareen, traversed through Iran before reaching their final destination in Turkiye. Tareen, 57, expressed the significance of their journey, stating, "Reaching here symbolises the strong friendship between our two countries. This provided an opportunity to establish a closer bond with our Turkish friends." His words resonate with the shared history and cultural connections that Pakistan and Turkiye enjoy.

During their time in Istanbul, the bikers explored the historic district of Fatih, where Tareen shared his reflections on the "unforgettable moments" they experienced along the way. He noted the similarities between Lahore and Istanbul, particularly in their narrow streets and historical architecture. "While walking through the narrow streets of Istanbul, we felt like we were in Lahore at times. The people, shops, and the old city walls of the city resemble Lahore," he remarked.

The bikers also expressed their fascination with eastern Turkiye, a region often overlooked by tourists who tend to flock to larger cities like Istanbul and Izmir. Tareen highlighted the unique beauty of eastern Turkiye, with its snow-capped mountains and welcoming villages. He stated, "The people in eastern Turkiye are very hospitable, kind, and sincere. This region is definitely a place we would like to explore again." This sentiment reflects the importance of experiencing the lesser-known aspects of a country, which often hold the most authentic cultural experiences.

Throughout their journey, the bikers traveled an impressive 300 to 400 kilometers each day, allowing them to engage with local communities and savor traditional foods. They met numerous motorcyclists from both Iran and Turkiye, fostering connections that transcend borders. Tareen expressed a desire to promote tourism exchange between the two countries, inviting Turkish motorcyclists to visit Pakistan. He emphasized the potential for stronger tourism cooperation, stating, "Turkiye has a large tourism economy. We think that Pakistan should also carry out conservation and restoration work on our historical sites. Gaining experience from Turkiye in this regard will increase our tourism potential."

Looking ahead, Tareen mentioned plans to explore Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in future trips, underscoring the importance of expanding the friendly relationship between Pakistan and Turkiye to other nations. Fellow group member Munawar Hussain, 43, shared his thoughts on the unique experience of traveling by motorcycle, stating, "When we come by air, we can only see big cities. But when you travel by motorcycle, you have the chance to explore small towns and villages. We got to know Turkiye more deeply." This perspective highlights the value of immersive travel, which allows individuals to connect with the heart and soul of a country.

The "Lahore-Istanbul Rally" serves as a testament to the strong ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, showcasing the beauty of cultural exchange and friendship. As these bikers continue to explore new horizons, they remind us of the importance of understanding and appreciating the diverse cultures that enrich our world. Their journey not only strengthens bilateral relations but also inspires others to embark on their own adventures, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation across borders.