AS people of Pakistan and Kashmiris around the globe are observing August 5 as ‘Youm-e-Istehsal’ to mark one year of abrogation of Article 370 and lockdown and curfew in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has conveyed his country’s firm resolve to continue supporting the just cause of Kashmiris. The Turkish leader, who spoke to President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha, told his Pakistani counterpart that Turkey would continue to support Pakistan’s stance on Jammu and Kashmir issue as both the brotherly countries have similar goals.
The categorical statement of President Erdogan assumes greater significance and relevance in the given circumstances as it transmits an unequivocal message to India that just minded members of the international community reject its illegal actions in the occupied territory and stand behind people of Kashmir in their struggle for right of self-determination. This is not for first time that Erdogan spoke for Kashmiris as he won wide acclaim for the bold remarks he made during his address to the UN General Assembly last year when he told the world body that in order for the Kashmiri people to look at a safe future together with their Pakistani and Indian neighbours, it is imperative to solve the problem through dialogue and on the basis of justice and equity, not through clashes. He did not care about the adverse reaction of New Delhi to his hard-hitting speech and instead once again reiterated the same position of his country during his address to Pakistan Parliament during his visit in the beginning of this year. Erdogan compared the situation in Kashmir with the Gallipoli campaign of the World War II and extended support to Pakistan, describing India’s recent actions in Kashmir as “unilateral”. Similar bold views were also expressed by the then Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir who did not back out from his just stance despite retaliatory trade moves initiated by India. Apart from unforgettable support on the core issue of concern to Pakistan, Turkey, under the visionary leadership of President Erdogan, is also extending cooperation to Pakistan to improve its socio-economic landscape. People of Pakistan are, indeed, proud of the steadfast and sincere friendship of Turkey especially its much-needed help during difficult times.
