PM reassures all-out support to quake-hit Turkiye

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday reassured all-out support to Ankara saying that his government and people of Pakistan are standing by Turkiye in this hour of grief.

Talking to Ambassador of Turkiye during his visit to Embassy of Turkiye in Pakistan to express solidarity with Turkish brethren, he also conveyed his deepest condolence to the families of the earthquake victims.

He said that more medical and rescue teams will be sent to Turkiye in coming days along with necessary aid items including tents, blankets and warm clothes.

The Prime Minister stressed the need to create a mechanism for the supply of needed items.

Recalling the support and help of Turkiye in 2005 earthquake and recent floods in Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif said we will spare no effort at all in cooperating with our Turkish brethren in their relief and rehabilitation process.

The Prime Minister said initially we are pushing large chunk of aid through trucks and airlines and also exploring ways to make the supply through trains.

Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property in the devastating earthquake, he said any amount of effort won't be enough as the loss is beyond imagination.

On this occasion, Turkish Ambassador Mehmet Paçaci, while expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, said that Pakistan's support has eased our grief. He said we are proud of having friendship and brotherhood of Pakistan.

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also accompanied the Prime Minister during the visit to Turkish Embassy.