Turkish President Erdogan Raises Kashmir Issue at 78th Session of UNGA
Erdogan asks Pakistan and India for dialogue to a peaceful resolution of Kashmir dispute
LAHORE MIRROR — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) during its 78th high-level session, where he raised the issue of Kashmir.
Erdogan emphasized the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to achieve a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute, underlining that this would contribute to peace, stability, and prosperity in South Asia. He pledged Turkey’s continued support for any steps taken in this direction.
During his UNGA address, Erdogan stated, “Another development that will promote regional peace, stability, and prosperity in South Asia will be the establishment of a just and lasting peace in Kashmir through dialogue and cooperation between India and Pakistan.” He reiterated Turkey’s commitment to supporting initiatives in this regard. Additionally, Erdogan reaffirmed his country’s support for the Palestinian people in their pursuit of legitimate rights.
These remarks by President Erdogan come shortly after his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in New Delhi, during which both leaders discussed strengthening trade and infrastructure relations.
Erdogan also expressed pride in India’s role at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and advocated for expanding the UNSC’s composition. He proposed the inclusion of five permanent members and 15 “temporary” members, which would rotate as permanent members, emphasizing that the world’s diversity should be acknowledged beyond the existing five permanent members (US, UK, France, China, and Russia).
It’s worth noting that in recent years, President Erdogan has consistently raised the Kashmir issue during his addresses to world leaders at the high-level UN General Assembly sessions. In his previous remarks at the UN, he expressed hope for the establishment of lasting peace and prosperity in Kashmir and called for improved relations between India and Pakistan. However, India had previously objected to such references, citing concerns about respecting the sovereignty of nations and the need for deeper policy reflection on Turkey’s part.
