After China, Turkey voice support for Pakistan amid escalating tensions with India

ISLAMABAD: Following China’s statement of support, Turkey has also come forward to support Pakistan in response to India’s recent aggressive comments, reaffirming the historic brotherly ties between Ankara and Islamabad.

During a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad, the Turkish ambassador stressed the importance of reducing regional tensions and maintaining peace and stability in South Asia. The envoy urged all parties to exercise restraint amid the escalating crisis triggered by New Delhi’s provocative statements.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed Turkey’s support, calling it a reflection of the enduring and brotherly relations between the two countries. He reiterated that Pakistan is focused on its economic recovery and development and sees India’s actions as deliberate attempts to divert global attention from Pakistan’s efforts in the fight against terrorism.

“India has not yet responded to Pakistan’s offer for a credible, transparent and impartial international investigation into the Pahalgam incident,” the prime minister said. “If Turkey chooses to participate in such an inquiry, we would welcome its involvement.”

Sharif also stressed that despite India’s provocations after the Pahalgam incident, Pakistan’s response has been measured and responsible. He added that we have consistently condemned all forms of terrorism and India’s baseless attempts to link Pakistan to the incident are part of a broader agenda to defame us internationally.

During the meeting, the Turkish ambassador reiterated his country’s support for Pakistan’s position, stressing that Turkey advocates diplomacy, restraint and peaceful resolution of crises in the interest of regional stability.

Earlier this week, the Chinese ambassador also met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and expressed Beijing’s strong support for Pakistan’s position, further isolating India diplomatically as tensions in the region escalate.