DUSHANBE , August 2, Asia-Plus - Turkey calls for the end to the current fighting in the Middle East , Mr. Ashkin Chakmak, Charge D’Affaires, Turkish Embassy in Dushanbe , remarked at a news conference in Dushanbe yesterday.  

“ Turkey keeps up with the latest developments in the region,” said Mr. Chakmak, “Our country is not supporter of a war and during a 60-year confrontation we have always insisted on settling the conflict through political way.”  

Turkish diplomat expressed concern about escalation of tension in the region, noting that the Government of Turkey has condemned detention by Israeli authorities of elected Palestinian ministers as well as operation in Lebanon , where 500 people have already been killed.   

“Fifth of Lebanon ’s population has already left the country, and Lebanon itself is currently on the verge of humanitarian crisis,” Mr. Chakmak stressed.   

At the same, according to him, the Turkish side considers that Israel has the right to protect itself against actions of Hezbollah group.  Turkish diplomat noted that Turkey was ready to send its peacekeeping forces to Lebanon only if cessation of fire is announced.  At present this issue is negotiated with the United Nations, according to Mr. Chakmak.  

Turkish diplomat added that Turkey played an important role as a transit country for evacuation of citizens of other countries from Lebanon .  10,000 foreigners have left Lebanon via the territory of Turkey . 

No Tajik citizens have been reported among those evacuated from Lebanon via Turkey .