Pak, Turkish ties a model, says Gul

ANKARA—President Abdullah Gul of Turkey terming Pak-Turkish relationship as a role model has stated that the objective behind his interaction with Pakistani politicians was to help retrieve the country from political unrest and put it on the path of democracy.
“The interaction with Pakistani politicians was very cordial and the Pakistani leadership also assured to hold the upcoming elections in a free, fair and transparent manner”, Abdullah Gul told APP Special Correspondent onboard the special aircraft on way back to Turkey on conclusion of his visit to Pakistan.
The Turkish President hailed the doffing of military uniform by President Pervez Musharraf and said by doing so he (Musharraf) has fulfilled his pledge made with the people of Pakistan. Abdullah Gul also thanked the leaders of political parties in Pakistan, who, he said, were appreciative of the efforts being made by Turkey to improve the political environment in the country.
He, however, made it clear that Turkey in anyway had no intention to interfere in the internal affairs of Pakistan and was only trying to help resolve the problems as a brotherly country, adding, this was also conveyed to politicians with whom he held meetings in Pakistan. The Turkish President said he had discussions with politicians in Pakistan in a very friendly atmosphere and all of them hailed the role of Turkey. He said the relationship between Pakistan and Turkey was a role model for the world, as these relations are not temporary or limited to any government but have roots in masses of the two brotherly nations.—APP