Turkey role model for Muslim world: Pakistan opposition

By Aamir Latif

KARACHI, Pakistan (AA) – Pakistan's main opposition leader and former star cricket player Imran Khan praised Turkey as a role model for the Muslim world, at a meeting with Turkey's envoy to Pakistan in Islamabad on Sunday.

“The people of Pakistan have a great respect for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for his active and unequivocal stance on the issues facing the Muslims across the world,” said Khan.

Turkish Ambassador Sadik Babur Girgin visited Khan, whose party came second in the 2013 general elections, as part of a series of meetings with Pakistani leaders after the July 15 failed coup and ahead of a visit Monday by Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu.

Earlier this month, Khan showed concern over the possible close of Pak-Turk schools linked to Fetullah Gulen network, arguing it could jeopardize the education of thousands of students.

Turkey has requested Pakistan close down some 28 schools and colleges being run by groups linked to Gulen, head of Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO), accused of masterminding the failed coup.

Islamabad, for its part, is considering different options to entertain Ankara’s request, Pakistan’s foreign office said last week.

In a statement issued after the meeting, Khan also praised the Turkish people for their role in thwarting the coup attempt and said that with their support, democracy can strengthen the country.

“Turkey is a role model for the rulers in Pakistan as well as for the whole Muslim world,” added Khan.