Pak expresses regret, shock at Turkish plane attack

Istanbul, June 26 (ANI): Pakistan has expressed "deep shock and regret" after Syrian troops opened fire on a rescue plane searching for pilots who were shot down on Friday.

"We express our solidarity with Turkey over this unprovoked tragic incident. We urge Syria to cooperate with Turkey in carrying out a joint investigation. We urge restraint in avoidance of any action that may lead to an escalation of tensions in the region," The Express Tribune quoted a Pakistani foreign office spokesman, as saying.

Turkish Vice Prime Minister Bulent Arinc had earlier said: "One of our CASA planes took off with a rescue team. Unfortunately, shots from the ground targeted our plane. Our foreign ministry and our military command have notified Syrian authorities and this harrassment must cease immediately". (ANI)