Exploring Cultures: A Ride from Lahore to Istanbul

APP

Islamabad: In a remarkable endeavor to strengthen ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, a group of seven passionate Pakistani motorcyclists set off on their “Lahore-Istanbul Rally,” traversing the scenic Iranian route.

This adventurous team, led by the indomitable Mukaram Tareen, embarked on their journey on October 11, covering approximately 8,000 kilometers over the course of 18 days.

Their destination, the enchanting city of Istanbul, was not just a goal but a symbol of the longstanding friendship between the two nations.

A Journey of Friendship

As they arrived in Istanbul, Tareen expressed the deep cultural bonds that connect Pakistan, Iran, and Turkiye, highlighting the historical ties that underpin their shared identities.

He remarked, “Reaching here symbolizes the strong friendship between our two countries,” noting the striking similarities between Lahore and Istanbul.

The group’s experiences walking through Istanbul’s narrow streets evoked memories of Lahore, where rich cultural heritages intertwine.

Their travels also took them through the lesser-known beauty of eastern Turkiye, where stunning landscapes and the warmth of local hospitality left an indelible mark on their hearts.

A Vision for the Future

Throughout their journey, the group forged connections with fellow motorcyclists, inviting Turkish riders to explore Pakistan and promote tourism exchange between the two nations.

Tareen expressed hope that their adventure would foster greater tourism cooperation, emphasizing the need for Pakistan to learn from Turkiye’s successful tourism practices.

As the group looks ahead, plans for future trips to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are on the horizon, with a vision to extend the friendship between Pakistan and Turkiye to neighboring countries.

Munawar Hussain, one of the group members, reflected on the enriching experience of traveling by motorcycle, saying, “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.”

Their journey serves as a reminder of the power of adventure in building bridges between cultures and fostering lasting friendships.