Ankara, December 13, 2024 – The Europe Today: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held discussions on Thursday, emphasizing robust regional cooperation and shared interests, with a particular focus on Syria and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Focus on Syria’s Future
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting an inclusive and accountable government in Syria. President Erdogan underscored Türkiye’s longstanding stance on preserving Syria’s territorial integrity, unity, and unitary structure.
He reiterated Türkiye’s determination to safeguard its national security against terrorist organizations such as PKK/PYD/YPG and Daesh in Syria. Highlighting Türkiye’s unique position as the only NATO member to have engaged Daesh in direct combat, Erdogan stressed the country’s ongoing efforts to prevent the PKK and its affiliates from exploiting the situation in Syria.
The Turkish president also called for international collaboration to revive and reconstruct Syria’s institutions, emphasizing the importance of a united global effort to stabilize the region.
Gaza Humanitarian Crisis
The discussions extended to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and progress on a prisoner swap deal that would facilitate a surge in humanitarian assistance to Palestinians.
Strengthening Regional Cooperation
The talks, according to the US State Department, reflect a shared commitment to fostering robust regional cooperation and addressing pressing challenges in the Middle East.
President Erdogan and Secretary Blinken’s dialogue highlights the ongoing partnership between the two NATO allies in addressing critical security and humanitarian issues while seeking pathways for peace and stability in the region.
