Ankara: Pakistan fully supports Trkiye and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Thursday in Islamabad. "Pakistan fully supports the cause of (Turkish Republic of) Northern Cyprus and fully stands by Trkiye on this cause in an unwavering fashion," Sharif said at a joint news conference in Islamabad with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is on a two-day official visit to Pakistan. He arrived in the Pakistani capital Wednesday night after visits to Malaysia and Indonesia.

According to Anadolu Agency, Sharif praised Erdogan as a "very important and highly respected leader of the Islamic world." Sharif acknowledged Erdogan's efforts in advocating for the rights of oppressed people, including those in Gaza, Palestine, and Kashmir. He noted that Erdogan's voice resonates not only in the Islamic world but globally, commending the Turkish leader for "transforming" Trkiye.

The Pakistani premier emphasized Trkiye's consistent support for the "just cause of the people" of Jammu and Kashmir, expressing his "unwavering" support to Ankara. He also recalled Pakistan's sacrifices in combating terrorism and expressed gratitude to the Turkish president for his solidarity on the loss of lives. Sharif reiterated Islamabad's commitment to fighting terrorism and urged Afghanistan to assist in this effort rather than contribute to it.

Sharif expressed gratitude to Erdogan for visiting Pakistan, marking his first visit in five years. He said that both his government and the people of Pakistan "warmly welcome" the Turkish president in Islamabad. In honor of Erdogan's visit, the Pakistani government named a newly constructed interchange in Islamabad after him. Along with Sharif, the Turkish president unveiled the plaque at a simple ceremony at the prime minister's office. The interchange, located at the junction of Jinnah Avenue and Afgha Shahi Avenue, aims to connect several key areas in the capital.

*Aamir Latif in Karachi contributed to this report*