Turkish expats show solidarity with families of Lebanese hostages in Aazaz

             
Turkish expatriates to Lebanon expressed on Saturday deep sympathy with the Lebanese families of pilgrims kidnapped  in Syria's Aazaz.                                    

Turkish expatriates sent an open letter to President Michel Sleiman, Speaker Nabih Berri and outgoing Prime Minister Najib Mikati.                                        

In the open letter, they reiterated that while they understand the families' concerns, they condemn their actions against Turkey which are deemed harmful and irresponsible towards bilateral relations.              

They appealed to the three officials to defend vital Turkish interests in Lebanon, and to protect Turkish expatriates in Lebanon.            

Eleven Lebanese pilgrims were kidnapped on their way back from Iran by insurgents hoping to use them for a prisoner swap on the 22nd of May. Only two have so far been released.                                                                                      
Their families have vowed to continue their movements until all their loved ones have returned home safe and sound.

They accuse Ankara of sponsoring the kidnapping and the Lebanese government of inaptness in this regard.                                                              

Last week they prevented several Syrian nationals who operate businesses in some Beirut areas from opening shop, stating that such movements symbolize their sense of desperation.                                                 
Last Friday they also held a major demonstration in Martyrs Square before the Turkish Airline Offices whereby they announced that they would be calling for the boycott of all Turkish products in Lebanon since "Lebanon imports a billion dollars worth of products from Ankara on a yearly basis."                                
Since then they have also prevented Turkish trucks from offloading shipments at the Karantina dock.