Pakistan reiterates support to Turkey as coronavirus pandemic wreaks havoc

In a telephonic conversation with President Erdogan, PM Imran offers condolences to Turkish people and government

Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated his support to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and offered condolences over the loss of precious lives due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The premier on Tuesday held a telephonic conversation with the Turkish top leadership as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country have crossed 30,000 with over 600 deaths.

So far, a total of 1,326 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospitals, while 1,415 patients are currently under intensive care units (ICUs) in Turkey, according to Anadolu Agency.

"Prime Minister [Imran Khan] offered condolences to the people and the government of Turkey over the loss of precious lives as a result of COVID-19," an official statement issued by the PM Office said.

PM Imran reaffirmed Pakistan’s abiding support and solidarity with President Erdogan, "including in Turkey’s efforts to combat the pandemic".



The prime minister also thanked the president for facilitation of stranded Pakistanis by Turkish authorities in the aftermath of discontinuation of flight operations.

A total of 194 Pakistanis stranded in Turkey due to coronavirus lockdown and suspension of airline operations returned to the country last week on a special flight of the Pakistan International Airlines.

"The two leaders agreed that Islamabad and Ankara must work together and reinforce each other’s efforts in the fight against COVID-19."