President Erdogan Condoles Civilian Losses in Indian Strikes, Reaffirms Türkiye’s Support to Pakistan

Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday held a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to express condolences over the loss of Pakistani lives caused by recent Indian missile strikes and reaffirmed Ankara’s unwavering solidarity with Pakistan.

According to a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, President Erdogan conveyed Türkiye’s readiness to play its role as a committed friend of Pakistan amid heightened tensions in South Asia.

The Turkish leader condemned the violence and reiterated Türkiye’s support for de-escalation in the region. He expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the 26 Pakistani civilians martyred in the strikes, and offered prayers for the success of Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and stability.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep appreciation for Türkiye’s solidarity and support, especially in the wake of what he termed as India’s “unprovoked act of aggression.” He condemned the missile attacks in the strongest terms, describing them as a “cowardly assault” on Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“The attack has gravely endangered regional peace and stability and is completely unacceptable,” the prime minister stated during the call.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, Prime Minister Shehbaz underlined the country’s determination to defend its sovereignty with full vigor and resolve. He also rejected India’s attempt to falsely implicate Pakistan in the April 22 Pahalgam incident, calling out New Delhi for failing to respond to his proposal for a neutral and transparent international investigation.

“Instead of cooperating on a credible inquiry, India has chosen the dangerous path of aggression and irresponsible state behavior,” he said.

President Erdogan also noted that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan had earlier spoken with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar to discuss the situation in detail, underscoring Ankara’s close coordination with Islamabad.

The conversation between the two leaders highlights Türkiye’s continuing support for Pakistan and its proactive stance in seeking a peaceful resolution to rising tensions in South Asia.