ISLAMABAD, Oct 30: Turkey will continue to support Pakistan’s fight against terrorism and extremism, and that its government and people deeply appreciate the role Pakistan has been playing in the war against terrorism.

This was stated by the Turkish ambassador in Islamabad, Engin Soysal in his message on the occasion of 85th national day of Turkey.

He said Turkey also called upon the international community to fully support Pakistan’s relentless efforts and appreciated the contributions it has been making towards the restoration of peace, order and stability in the region.

He said “unfortunately, for the last many years both Pakistan and Turkey have been facing serious problem of terrorism, which has taken the lives of many innocent people, as well as a great world leader Ms Benazir Bhutto.

“The selfless services of late Benazir Bhutto who devoted her life to her country and sacrificed herself for this cause, shall always be remembered with appreciation and gratitude.

“We strongly condemn the abhorrent terrorist attacks aimed at the unity and integrity as well as the democracy and stability of brotherly Pakistan. Turkey perceives terrorism a crime against humanity regardless of its source and cause, and always emphasizes the importance of effective cooperation and solidarity on this field on the global level. Extremism is bound to be defeated by the forces of the moderate powers,” the message said.

“Pakistan has demonstrated that with its inherent capabilities in terms of human and material sources it is fully capable of putting up a strong fight against the terrorist threat.

“With our Pakistani friends aspiring for a moderate, tolerant and pluralistic society with broad horizons, I can foresee far greater opportunities for development of even stronger political, economic, military and trade relations between Turkey and Pakistan.

“Let us resolve on this auspicious occasion that we shall spare no efforts to further strengthen the fraternal ties between our two countries through mutual cooperation in all fields”.

Turkey and Pakistan have always stood together in confronting major challenges. Turks very sincerely consider Pakistan to be their second home and I am honoured to serve among wonderful people”.

He recounted that Mr. Abdullah Gul’s visit to Pakistan marked the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our brotherly countries while Pakistan’s Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani was invited by his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyib Erdogan to honour the official 85th Republic Day Ceremony in Ankara.

He further stated that Foreign Minister of Turkey Ali Babacan was the first foreign minister to visit Pakistan in April 2008 after the February 18 polls to express Turkey’s happiness and appreciation over Pakistan’s successful transition to full democracy.