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In a recent press briefing following a breakfast meeting between President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Justice and Development Party (AK Party) lawmakers at the party headquarters, AK Party spokesperson Omer Celik expressed strong condemnation of India's recent military attack on Pakistan.
The attack, which involved missile strikes and air raids, escalated tensions between the two South Asian nations. Celik stressed Türkiye's firm opposition to such military actions targeting civilian areas.
The incident took place late in the evening, as tensions between India and Pakistan flared. India reportedly launched a missile and airstrike against Pakistan, which Celik described as unacceptable.
"Last night, as you know, a tension arose between India and Pakistan. India launched an attack on Pakistan using missiles and fighter jets. We strongly condemn and reject the attack on Pakistan. The Indian side claims it was a response to previous terrorist attacks."
"However, the Pakistani side, as you know, had requested the establishment of a comprehensive commission to investigate terrorism. This was the right approach. The mechanism for investigating this should have been implemented, and it should have been thoroughly examined and investigated," he added.
Celik also pointed out, the military strikes targeted civilian structures, which is something Türkiye cannot accept by stating, "Instead of taking this step, India launched an attack on Pakistan targeting civilian areas, civilian structures, and civilians using missiles and fighter jets. This kind of attack is absolutely unacceptable. We express our strong condemnation of this act."
"Necessary steps must be taken to prevent further escalation of tensions. India's attack is reckless, provocative, and escalates tensions, and it is of course strongly condemned by us. We hope that no situation will arise in the region that could lead to a war moving forward," he concluded.
During the meeting at AK Party's headquarters, which included discussions on both domestic and foreign policies, Celik noted that various issues raised by the party's lawmakers regarding their provinces were addressed. He emphasized that President Erdogan and the AK Party leadership were committed to guiding and addressing these concerns in collaboration with relevant ministries.
"Many lawmakers raised questions and topics regarding both domestic and foreign policy. Our President and General Chairman responded to these, and they directed our ministers to ensure that these issues are further elaborated and followed up on," Celik added.
In his comments, Celik also reflected on the strategic importance of Türkiye's current efforts to achieve a "terror-free Türkiye." He reiterated that this effort is a state policy, supported by the entire nation, and it is aimed at resolving the longstanding issue of terrorism.
"With the leadership of President Erdogan and the strategic call made by Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli, we have a clear strategy. Today, the terror-free Türkiye process is a state policy, and every part of it is being closely monitored," Celik explained. He further emphasized that the disbanding of terrorist organizations and the laying down of weapons are essential steps in achieving lasting peace in the region.
Celik concluded his remarks by stressing the importance of taking concrete actions to ensure that the recent attack does not lead to further conflict. "We believe the disbandment of terrorist groups and the cessation of their activities will bring about a new phase in regional stability," he noted. He also expressed hope that these efforts would ultimately reduce the internal tensions caused by terrorism and reinforce Türkiye's democratic framework.
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