Turkey endorses Pakistan's decision on NATO supplies

In its first diplomatic support from a far-regional state since the Salala incident that took place about six months ago, Pakistan Tuesday received Turkey's support to its decision on NATO supplies that have been suspended and resumption is awaiting the United States' apology on the incident. Turkish Prime Minister of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan jointly addressing a press conference with Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said that his country respects Pakistan's decision on the NATO supply routes and endorses its demand for an apology from the United States over the killing of its troops at Salala check-post. Turkish Prime Minister said that the opening of NATO supply route was the discretion of Pakistan. However, he added, "as a member of NATO, Turkey believes that such issues should be resolved through mutual dialogue." Prime Minister Gilani on the occasion said that the final decision to open, what Pakistan now terms as the Ground Lines of Communication and its timing, would be made in line with the recommendations of the parliamentary committee. Earlier, the two countries signed nine documents for cooperation in various fields particularly investments, energy and communications in a bid to further strengthen their bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Gilani and his Turkish counterpart also co-chaired the second meeting of High-Level Cooperation Council and agreed to boost bilateral relations in all sectors particularly energy, communication, trade and culture. Premier Gilani said that Pakistan considers Turkey as its brotherly country and intends to seek cooperation in multiple areas.