Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has reiterated his stance on the Kashmir issue, stating that Turkey is ready to play its part in facilitating a resolution between India and Pakistan. His remarks came after a high-level meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, where the two leaders discussed regional stability and bilateral cooperation.
Erdogan’s Statement on Kashmir
Following his talks with Shehbaz Sharif, Erdogan emphasized the need for a balanced approach to prevent further escalation in the region.
“We held comprehensive talks on the Kashmir issue with Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif and explored ways to assist. A balanced approach can bring the parties closer to a solution and help prevent renewed escalation,” Erdogan stated.
He further suggested that international organizations should be involved in the resolution process, advocating for a human rights-based approach to the Kashmir dispute.
India’s Firm Stance
India has consistently maintained that Kashmir is an internal matter, rejecting any third-party mediation. The Indian government has reiterated that the only discussions with Pakistan will be on terrorism and the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to India.
Rising Tensions and Turkey’s Role
Erdogan’s remarks come at a time when India-Turkey relations have been strained due to Ankara’s military support to Pakistan, including the supply of drones used during Operation Sindoor. Calls for a boycott of Turkish products have gained traction in India, reflecting growing discontent over Turkey’s stance on Kashmir.
What’s Next?
While Turkey has expressed willingness to mediate, India remains firm on its non-negotiable stance regarding Kashmir. As diplomatic engagements continue, the geopolitical landscape in South Asia remains tense, with both nations navigating complex international relations.
