Pakistan opposes ‘unilateral sanctions’ by US on Turkey

Pakistan on Monday opposed the “unilateral sanctions” imposed by the U.S. on Turkey over the detention of an American pastor under terrorism charges.

“Pakistan, in principle, is opposed to imposition of unilateral sanctions against any country. The solution to any and all issues should lies in dialogue, mutual understanding and goodwill,” a statement by the country’s Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

“Any steps or actions to the contrary only undermine the peace and stability and make the solution to a problem more difficult and intractable,” the statement added.

Turkey and the U.S. are currently experiencing rocky relations following Washington’s imposition of sanctions on Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu and Justice Minister Abdulhamit Gul for not releasing American Pastor Andrew Brunson, who faces terrorism charges in Turkey.

U.S. President Donald Trump ramped up his attack on Turkey by doubling U.S. tariffs on Turkish aluminum and steel imports to 20 percent and 50 percent, respectively.

The statement by Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry lauded Turkey’s role towards regional and international peace and stability.

“Pakistan acknowledges and greatly appreciates Turkey’s invaluable role towards regional and international peace and stability. It is also a vital member and engine of the global economy”, the statement further said.

Expressing its solidarity, Islamabad reiterated its strong support for the government and the people of Turkey.

“The people and the government of Pakistan reiterate their strong support for the government and the people of Turkey in their quest for peace and prosperity, and as always, will continue to stand by them towards the achievement of these shared goals,” the statement said.