Erdogan condoles loss of lives in Indian missile strikes, reaffirmed Turkiye’s unwavering support for Pakistan

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ISLAMABAD, Wednesday, May 07, 2025 (WNP): Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday called Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to offer condolences over the loss of Pakistani lives in recent Indian missile strikes and reaffirmed Turkiye’s unwavering support for Pakistan.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, President Erdogan expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of innocent civilians and assured that Turkiye stood in full solidarity with Pakistan during this difficult time. He reiterated Turkiye’s readiness to play a constructive role as a close and committed friend of Pakistan.

President Erdogan said the Turkish people were praying for the success of Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and supported all initiatives aimed at de-escalating tensions in South Asia.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed his sincere appreciation for Turkiye’s solidarity and support in the wake of what he described as India’s unprovoked and cowardly act of aggression. He strongly condemned the missile strikes that claimed the lives of at least 26 innocent men, women, and children, calling the attack a blatant violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The prime minister warned that India’s actions had gravely threatened regional peace and stability and were unacceptable under international norms.

During the conversation, Prime Minister Sharif also rejected India’s allegations linking Pakistan to the recent Pahalgam incident. He criticized New Delhi for failing to respond to Islamabad’s offer of a neutral and transparent international investigation, instead opting for military aggression and irresponsible state behavior.

President Erdogan acknowledged Pakistan’s commitment to peace in the region and lauded its diplomatic stance. He noted that earlier in the day, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan had spoken with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar to discuss the unfolding situation in detail.

Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace but underscored the nation’s resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity with full determination.

PM Shehbaz thanks Turkish President Erdogan for solidarity

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed gratitude to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his strong message of solidarity and support with Pakistan in the aftermath of Indian missile strikes that claimed civilian lives and escalated regional tensions.

President Erdogan had telephoned Prime Minister Shehbaz on Wednesday to offer condolences and extend support from the Turkish government and people. The Pakistani premier thanked Erdogan for standing by Pakistan “at this critical time,” and acknowledged the prayers and sentiments of the Turkish nation for the victims of what he called “heinous missile strikes” by India.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Shehbaz said he had briefed the Turkish leader on the swift and professional response of Pakistan’s armed forces, who “repulsed the enemy with bravery and operational superiority.”

“We will protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs,” the prime minister said, adding that Pakistan deeply appreciated Turkiye’s diplomatic efforts to help de-escalate tensions and promote peace in South Asia.

According to official sources, President Erdogan strongly condemned the loss of innocent Pakistani lives and reiterated Turkiye’s readiness to play a constructive role as a “committed and time-tested friend” of Pakistan.

Reaffirming Turkiye’s unwavering solidarity with the Pakistani people, Erdogan underscored the need for diplomatic solutions and said that the Turkish nation was praying for the success of Pakistan’s efforts to ensure regional stability.

The conversation between the two leaders comes amid growing international concern over rising hostilities in South Asia, following what Pakistan has termed an “unprovoked and reckless act of aggression” by India.