India expresses deep concern at ‘unilateral’ military offensive by Turkey on Syria

Expressing deep concern at the ‘unilateral military offensive’ by Turkey in north-east Syria, India on Thursday called upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria.

“We are deeply concerned at the unilateral military offensive by Turkey in north-east Syria. Turkey’s actions can undermine stability in the region and the fight against terrorism,” an MEA statement said here.

“Its action also has the potential for causing humanitarian and civilian distress. We call upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria,” the statement said.

The statement further maintained that New Delhi would like to urge for the “peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogue and discussion”.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has condemned Turkey’s operation as a “bad idea” and said that Turkey, a NATO ally, would face economic punishment if it did anything he considered “off limits.”  (UNI)