Turkish delegation visits Badshahi Masjid
A magnificent view of Lahore’s iconic Badshahi mosque before sunset. Built in the sixteenth century, the edifice is a historical monument and tourist attraction. PHOTO: FILE
An 18-member delegation, led by Dr Ali Arbas, president of the Presidential Religious Affairs of the Turkish government, visited Alamgiri Badshahi Masjid on Friday.
Federal Religious Affairs Minister Pir Noorul Haq Qadri and Punjab Minister for Auqaf Syed Saeedu Hassan Shah welcomed the delegation. The guests also visited the tomb of the poet Allama Iqbal. The delegation laid a bouquet at the mausoleum of the Poet of the East.
Dr Ali Arbas delivered the Juma sermon while Khateeb Badshahi Masjid Dr Abdul Khabir Azad led the prayers. Provincial Secretary Auqaf Jawad Akram, Director General Auqaf Syed Tahir Raza Bukhari, Administrator Data Darbar Khalid Mahmood Sindhu, Zonal Administrator Babar Kundal and other officers were also present.
Dr Ali Arbas recorded his impressions in the visitors’ book. He paid homage to the poetry and message of the Poet of the East Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal. He said the visit would strengthen ties between the two countries. The hearts of Turkish and Pakistani people are beating for each other, he added.
The delegation visited the blessed sacred gallery at the Badshahi Masjid. Dr Ali Arbas said that the visit of the delegation would prove to be a milestone between the two countries.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 19th, 2022.