Int'l community urges coup-hit Turkey back to civilian rule

BEIJING - The international community has shown great concern over a coup attempt in Turkey and urged for the non-employment of violence and a speedy return to civilian rule.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Friday called for calm, non-violence and restraint in Turkey, stressing that "military interference in the affairs of any state is unacceptable."

According to a statement issued by Ban's spokesman, "it will be crucial to quickly and peacefully affirm civilian rule and constitutional order in accordance with principles of democracy."

US President Barack Obama on Friday called on all parties in Turkey to support the democratically-elected government, show restraint, and avoid any violence or bloodshed.

Britain's newly appointed Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said via his Twitter account: "Very concerned by events unfolding in Turkey. Our Embassy is monitoring the situation closely."

Greece follows closely the development in Turkey in the wake of reports on a military coup attempt in the neighboring country, Greek national news agency AMNA reported on early Saturday.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has been briefed by the head of the Greek intelligence service, according to government sources.

Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said in a statement on Saturday that her government is monitoring the situation in Turkey closely, adding that "our priority is the safety of Australian citizens in Turkey. "

Iran's Foreign Ministry on Saturday advised its citizens in Turkey to stay in their place and not to move out, after a military coup was announced there.

"Dear compatriots and visitors to Turkey, please stay in your place and avoid attending the crowded areas," a statement by the foreign ministry was cited by the country's official IRNA news agency.

"Hearken to and consider the announcements by the security officials of Turkey" for further developments following the coup attempt, the statement said.

A military statement on Turkish media said Friday the armed forces have fully seized power in the country but President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said early Saturday the coup attempt has failed, urging people to protect democracy.