Pakistan

President Zardari, PM Shehbaz strongly condemn deadly terrorist attack in Turkiye

Attack at Turkish Aerospace Industries' headquarters left four people dead and 14 others wounded

News Desk October 23, 2024

Smoke rises as security forces, firefighters, and paramedics are dispatched to Turkish Aerospace Industries’ (TAI) facilities after explosions and gunshots were reported following a terrorist attack in the Kahramankazan district of Ankara, Turkiye on October 23, 2024. PHOTO: REUTERS

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Ankara, which resulted in the tragic loss of lives on Wednesday.

In separate statements on Wednesday, both leaders expressed deep condolences and affirmed Pakistan's solidarity with Turkiye in this time of grief.

President Zardari extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with the Turkish government and people.

“We stand in full solidarity with our Turkish brothers and sisters in this difficult time,” he said, adding that Pakistan understands the pain caused by such brutal acts, having endured the scourge of terrorism.

“Terrorists are enemies of peace and humanity,” Zardari stated, stressing the need for united global efforts to combat terrorism and ensure a secure future for all nations.

PM Shehbaz took to social media platform X to express his shock and sorrow over the attack. He offered condolences to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Turkish people, stating, “Pakistan stands in complete solidarity with its Turkish brothers.”

Sharif also prayed for the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. Both leaders reiterated Pakistan’s strong stance against terrorism in all its forms.

The attack, which took place at Turkish Aerospace Industries' headquarters near Ankara, left four people dead and 14 others wounded, with three in critical condition.

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that two attackers were killed in what he called a terrorist attack. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire and a loud explosion at the site. TV footage showed armed assailants entering the TUSAS building.

President Tayyip Erdogan, who was attending a BRICS conference in Kazan, Russia, alongside President Vladimir Putin, also referred to the incident as a terrorist attack.