Pakistani PM congratulates Erdogan on presidential win

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Justice (r) Nasirul Mulk has congratulated President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his outright victory in the first round of a presidential poll.

In a statement, Mr Mulk said: "The people of Pakistan take great pride in the progress and development achieved by Turkey, and hope that the bonds of historic brotherhood between the people of Pakistan and Turkey will continue to grow ever stronger in future."

He added that “the victory signifies strong confidence of Turkish people in the leadership of Erdogan.”

Turkish citizens voted in twin presidential and parliamentary elections on Sunday.

Turkey elections: Tayyip Erdogan wins presidential race

The Supreme Election Council (YSK) announced Erdogan won an absolute majority in the presidential election.

The 64-year-old got nearly 53% with almost all votes counted. His closest rival Muharrem Ince was on 31%.

He will now assume sweeping new powers, won in a controversial referendum last year. The post of PM will be abolished.

Final results will be announced on Friday.

Nasirul Mulk is the 7th caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan who previously served as the 22nd Chief Justice of Pakistan.

Pakistan will elect a new government after July 25 general elections.