Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has expressed gratitude to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his robust support for Pakistan during the ongoing tensions in South Asia and his appeal for peace in the region. During a conversation with the Ambassador of Turkiye to Pakistan, Dr. Irfan Neziroglu, in Islamabad, Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that Turkiye’s backing of Pakistan underscores the historic and enduring brotherly ties between the two nations.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister noted that Pakistan’s response to India’s provocative actions following the Pahalgam incident has been responsible and measured. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Shehbaz Sharif detailed Pakistan’s substantial sacrifices in counter-terrorism, citing over 90,000 casualties and more than 152 billion dollars in economic losses. He expressed concern that India’s actions could potentially divert Pakistan from its counter-terrorism efforts.

The Prime Minister pointed out that India has not provided any evidence linking Pakistan to the Pahalgam incident and has declined Pakistan’s offer for an impartial, transparent international investigation. Shehbaz Sharif assured Pakistan’s full cooperation with such an inquiry and welcomed Turkiye’s participation in the investigation.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to Pakistan’s economic recovery and growth, emphasizing the need for peace and security in the region to achieve these goals. On the occasion, the Turkish Ambassador conveyed Turkiye’s appreciation for Pakistan’s position and expressed solidarity with Pakistan. He also called for de-escalation and restraint to ensure peace and security in South Asia.