Syria on Monday welcomed India’s position on the military offensive by Turkey and maintained that the Turkish ‘invasion’ is a clear aggression of a sovereign nation and in violation of all International Laws and UN Charter.
“The Turkish invasion has created another exodus of Syrian people inhabited in that part causing another humanitarian crisis,” Syrian envoy to India Riad Kamel Abbas told reporters here.
He thanked India for its stance and said, “Syria appreciates all the help extended to counter terrorists in all its forms and supporting Syria’s integrity and sovereignty”.
In what can be seen as a veiled attack on Pakistan, he said: “Turkey supports terror and all country who support Turkey, support terror”.
“On behalf of my government, we welcome the Indian statement on Turkish invasion of Syria. We appreciate Indian position,” he said.
Earlier this month, expressing ‘deep concern’ over the military offensive India had called on Turkey to exercise restraint, respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria, and urged for the peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogues.
“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. Its action also has the potential for causing humanitarian and civilian distress,” Ministry of External Affairs had said in a statement.
The Syrian ambassador disclosed that he had met External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and discussed the current issues affecting Syria.
“….We always talked on how to defeat cross border terrorism, we have received assurance and support from India government regarding support in form of medicines, food, all necessary requirements,” Abbas said. He also said the Indian government is a strong government.”India’s voice is strong in the international arena,” he remarked. (UNI)
