ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has strongly condemned the coup attempt in Turkey and backed the country’s democratic norms and rule of law. “I condemn the coup attempt to undermine democracy in Turkey and the resolve demonstrated by valiant Turkish people is commendable. We attach high importance to our vibrant and historical ties with Turkey. Turkish people have always supported Pakistan on every occasion. We reiterate our support for elected government and leadership of Turkey,” said a PM House said on Saturday. Separately, Information Minister Pervez Rashid said that the democratic forces in Turkey deserved congratulation as they had thwarted the military coup with the force of people rather than guns. “Turkey is a bright example for all the Muslim and non-Muslim countries. Failure of military coup in Turkey is a matter of rejoicing for those who believe in democracy,” he said while talking to a private TV channel on Saturday. He went on to say that it was a clear message for those who talk of martial law in Pakistan. “Military coup met success in Egypt because the elected government could not get opportunity to work,” he said. Referring to pro-coup banners displayed in several cities of Pakistan, he said those who put banners for inviting military to takeover were being arrested. He also asked the respective provincial government to take action against those who displayed the banners. Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Saturday thanked Special Adviser to Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi and expressed his gratitude for the people and government of Pakistan for supporting democracy in Turkey. Fatemi had earlier expressed solidarity with the Turkish government on behalf of the people and the government of Pakistan after a group of Turkish army attempted a fail coup to topple the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. “I am grateful to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for sending his message of support for the Turkish government and democracy in Turkey,” he said.