In a significant diplomatic engagement, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met on Friday in Ankara to discuss pressing regional issues, including combating terrorism and restoring stability in Syria. The leaders jointly called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, underscoring the urgency of de-escalating tensions in the region.
“Our priorities include ensuring stability in Syria and preventing the dominance of terrorist organizations such as IS (Islamic State) and the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party),” Fidan stated during a joint press conference with Blinken. He emphasized the shared commitment between Türkiye and the United States in addressing these critical challenges.
The discussions focused on exploring viable solutions to the ongoing crisis in Syria, with both officials expressing the necessity of a political resolution that ensures inclusivity and protection of minority rights. “There’s broad agreement on expectations for the interim government in Syria—one that is inclusive, protects minority rights, rejects extremism, and poses no threats to its neighbors,” Blinken noted.
Addressing the escalating conflict in Gaza, the two leaders echoed the need for an immediate ceasefire. “We agreed that a ceasefire in Gaza should be reached as soon as possible,” Fidan affirmed, highlighting Türkiye’s role in influencing Hamas towards a potential hostage ceasefire agreement. Blinken added, “What we’ve seen in the last couple of weeks are more encouraging signs that that is possible.”
The meeting also reinforced the commitment of both nations to ongoing counter-IS efforts, recognizing the importance of continued collaboration in combating terrorism.
Blinken’s visit to Ankara followed his trip to Jordan and included a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to discuss the situation in Syria. The diplomatic engagements underscore the strategic partnership between Türkiye and the United States in addressing regional security and humanitarian challenges.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
