In Pakistan, Erdogan reaffirms support on Kashmir, FATF

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has emphatically reiterated his stance on the resolution of the 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 the elected representatives in Islamabad on Friday, he 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 alarming situation. He noted that depriving the Kashmiris from their freedom and usurping their rights is not in anybody’s interests.

He said resolution of this dispute lies not in oppressive tactics but it warrants justice. “We feel for the Kashmiris the same way like the Muslims of this region felt for us during Khilafat Movement.”

The Turkish President also recalled that he had extended fully support to the Kashmiri people at the session of the UN General Assembly.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan once again strongly rejected the US Middle East Plan saying it is not a peace plan but aimed at occupying the Palestinian territory. He said his Turkey has strongly reacted to the Middle East and it will stick to it.

The Turkish President hailed Pakistan’s efforts for peace and security of Afghanistan.

Hailing Pakistan’s efforts 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 fully 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.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed satisfaction that Pakistan is moving forward on the path of progress and prosperity. He was confident that Pakistan will soon realize the fruits of this development. He said that we will collectively move forward to enhance our economic partnership. This friendship is not based on any interest but purely love and affection. He said Pakistan and Turkey enjoy everlasting friendship which is an example for the whole world. This partnership and cooperation will always stay intact.

He said Turkey shares the grief and pain of Pakistan. We consider the successes of Pakistan as that of ours. He said his country extended fully support to Pakistan during floods and other calamities. Pakistan also proved to be a true friend during difficult times on Turkey. He said he considers Pakistan just like his own home.

The Turkish President spoke at length on the historic relations between Pakistan and Turkey. He said the people of Turkey can never forget the wholehearted support extended by the people of this region during Khilafat Movement.

Earlier in his welcome address, Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser paid glowing tributes to the visionary leadership of the Turkish President.

Referring to the Indian atrocities in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, he said the entire Pakistani nation salutes the categorical stance taken by the Turkish President on Kashmir dispute. He expressed the confidence that the visit of Recep Tayyip Erdogan will open new vistas of cooperation between the two countries.