ISLAMABAD, Wednesday, May 14, 2025 (WNP): Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday lauded Pakistan’s policy of prioritizing dialogue and reconciliation in regional matters, reaffirming Turkiye’s unwavering support and fraternal bond with Pakistan.

In a post on social media platform X, Erdogan commended Islamabad’s diplomatic approach, saying, “We highly appreciate the prudent, patient policy of the Pakistani state that prioritizes dialogue and reconciliation in resolving disputes.”

The Turkish president was responding to a message from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who had earlier thanked Erdogan for his consistent support and his government’s constructive role in promoting regional peace.

Erdogan emphasized that Turkiye attaches “great importance” to Pakistan’s peace, stability, and prosperity. He described the ties between the two nations as “a rare blessing,” calling the brotherhood between Islamabad and Ankara “one of the most beautiful examples of true friendship.”

“Extending heartfelt greetings to the people of Pakistan, we stand with our brothers and sisters in both good times and bad,” Erdogan said.

Prime Minister Shehbaz, in his remarks posted on X, expressed gratitude for Erdogan’s solidarity, particularly in times of regional tension. “Pakistan is proud of its long-standing, time-tested, and abiding fraternal ties with Turkiye that have grown stronger with each new challenge,” he wrote. “I am particularly grateful for His Excellency’s constructive role and concerted efforts in promoting peace in South Asia.”

President Erdogan’s comments followed his address during a cabinet meeting in Ankara on Tuesday, where he welcomed the recently declared ceasefire between Pakistan and India. He urged both countries to exercise restraint and avoid further provocations.

“We took a very clear stance both on the heinous terrorist attack in \[Indian-administered] Jammu and Kashmir and on the missile strikes targeting Pakistan,” Erdogan stated. “While openly declaring our support for the brotherly people of Pakistan, we also made intense efforts to de-escalate the tension, which had risen to very dangerous levels.”

He expressed hope that the calm brought about by the ceasefire would pave the way for addressing other longstanding issues between the two South Asian neighbors, particularly the water dispute.