Aisha Mahmood, Islamabad: Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed the joint sitting of Pakistan Parliament for the fourth time. Addressing the session, the Turkish president said that he never felt like a stranger in Pakistan adding that it has always been like a home. He said he is thankful to all for the way in which the people of Pakistan have welcomed him.

He further said Pakistan has proven to be a close friend of Turkey, and that the friendship is not based on vested interests but on love. He reiterated his support for the people of Kashmir and said the ‘issue of Kashmir is as close to us as it is to Pakistan`. He added that the issue can be resolved not through conflict but through justice and fairness.

He also appreciated Pakistan`s positive contributions to the peace process in Afghanistan. Speaking about FATF, Erdogan said his country will fully back Pakistan at the global forum.

Earlier, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, National Assembly (NA) Speaker Asad Qaiser received the Turkish president discuss about many issues including bilateral. The NA session was summoned by President Arif Alvi. Erdogan will be the 21st foreign dignitary to address the NA/Senate/Joint Sitting of the Parliament/Constitutional Assembly of Pakistan. The Turkish president arrived in Pakistan on Thursday on a two-day official visit. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising cabinet members and senior government officials as well as heads and CEOs of leading Turkish corporations.

After his arrival, the Turkish president was given a guard of honor at the PM House. He also held a meeting with President Alvi, which was followed by a banquet.