Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Ankara’s close relationship with Pakistan should not be viewed as an unfriendly act towards India
June 3, 2026: Turkey has sought to reassure India that its longstanding friendship with Pakistan should not be interpreted as hostility towards New Delhi. Speaking at an international forum in Singapore, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Turkey’s support for Pakistan was based on historic ties and should not overshadow opportunities for cooperation with India. He emphasized that Ankara values its bilateral relationship with India and wants both countries to focus on areas of mutual benefit.
Fidan noted that several countries maintain close relations with Pakistan and argued that Turkey’s engagement with Islamabad should not be seen differently. He urged India to avoid viewing the issue through a negative lens and said Turkey remains committed to maintaining constructive relations with New Delhi. The remarks are being seen as an attempt to ease concerns amid periodic tensions over Turkey’s public support for Pakistan on regional issues.
The statement comes against the backdrop of Turkey’s repeated backing of Pakistan on matters such as Kashmir and its support for Islamabad following India’s military action during Operation Sindoor. While Turkey and Pakistan continue to share close diplomatic and defence ties, Ankara also maintains trade and business relations with India. Observers believe the latest comments reflect Turkey’s effort to balance its strategic partnership with Pakistan while preserving economic and diplomatic engagement with India.