THE attack at the Turkish Aerospace Industries’ headquarters near Ankara, which claimed the lives of five individuals and left twenty two others wounded, is a devastating reminder of the pervasive threat of terrorism that continues to plague nations around the globe. President RecepTayyip Erdogan, who was attending discussions with Vladimir Putin at the time of the attack, condemned the incident as a “heinous terrorist attack,” reflecting the sentiments of many who recognize the profound impact of such violence on both the immediate victims and the broader community.
In echoing these sentiments, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unequivocally condemned the assault, extending heartfelt condolences to the Turkish Government and people during this difficult time. Their statements resonate deeply with the Pakistani public, who have always viewed Turkiye as a close ally and friend. Turkiye, along with Malaysia, stands as a beacon of progress and development within the Muslim Ummah. The advancements in various sectors—be it technology, defence or culture—serve as a source of pride and inspiration for many in the Islamic world. It is, therefore, particularly disheartening that certain elements seek to destabilize this progress through such violent acts. These individuals aim to sow discord and chaos but they must not succeed in dampening the spirit of resilience and unity that characterizes Turkiye. We have no doubt that those responsible for this terrorist act will be apprehended and brought to justice by the Turkish authorities, who possess both the capability and capacity to do so. As a nation that has also faced the scourge of terrorism, Pakistan understands the pain and suffering that accompanies such brutal acts. Our collective experience in combating this menace underscores the need for cooperation and solidarity. It is imperative that both Turkiye and Pakistan join hands, sharing expertise, technology and strategies to effectively tackle terrorism in all its forms. By working together, we can create a more secure future for our peoples and ensure peace and stability.
