ISLAMABAD: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday vowed to stand with his stance on the resolution of outstanding Kashmir dispute through dialogue and peaceful means on the basis of justice.
Addressing the joint sitting of the parliament amidst the thumping of desks by elected representatives, the Turkish President said our Kashmiri brothers have been living under difficult circumstances over the years. However, the recent unilateral steps have further added to the woes of the Kashmiri people and the situation has assumed an alarming situation. He noted that depriving the Kashmiris of their freedom and usurping their rights is not in anybody’s interests.
“The Kashmir issue can be resolved not through conflict or oppression but on the basis of justice and fairness. Such a solution will serve the interests of all parties concerned. Turkey will continue to stand by justice, peace and dialogue in the resolution of the Kashmir issue,” he said.
The Turkish President said the resolution of this dispute lies not in oppressive tactics but it warrants justice. He said we feel for the Kashmiris the same way as the Muslims of this region felt for us during the Khilafat Movement. He also recalled that he had extended full support to the Kashmiri people at the session of the UN General Assembly.
Erdogan once again strongly rejected the US Middle East Plan saying it is not a peace plan but aimed at occupying the Palestinian territory. The Turkish President hailed Pakistan’s efforts for peace and security of Afghanistan and in the war on terrorism.
The Turkish President said the menace greatly affected the country. He said we are fully cognizant of the problems of Pakistan and will extend full cooperation including in its anti-terror efforts. He said Pakistan is faced with political pressure at the FATF and his country will fully back it at the global forum. He said that Turkey will continue to support Pakistan on important matters as in the past.
“I am thankful for the way in which the people of Pakistan have welcomed us. Here in Pakistan we never see ourselves as strangers. We feel at home. We are here at home, together with you,” he said.
Erdogan expressed satisfaction that Pakistan is moving forward on the path of progress and prosperity. He expressed confidence that Pakistan will soon realise the fruits of this development. He said that both countries will collectively move forward to enhance the economic partnership. He said Pakistan and Turkey enjoy everlasting friendship which is an example for the whole world and this partnership and cooperation will always stay intact.
He said Turkey shares the grief and pain of Pakistan. He said his country extended full support to Pakistan during floods and other calamities. Pakistan also proved to be a true friend during difficult times in Turkey. “When there were earthquakes in Turkey, people in Pakistan supported us,” he said. “I am thankful on behalf of my country for the support of Pakistan,”
Earlier in his welcome address, Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser paid glowing tributes to the visionary leadership of the Turkish President. He said the entire Pakistani nation salutes the stance taken by the Turkish President on the Kashmir dispute. He expressed confidence that the visit of Erdogan will open new vistas of cooperation between the two countries.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered Friday Prayer along with President Dr Arif Alvi at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad. They prayed for the progress and prosperity both countries.
Read more: Erdogan, Alvi agree to transform relations into economic partnership
