In a significant move towards regional stability, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a pivotal meeting on Friday in Ankara. The two leaders focused on combating terrorism and fostering stability in Syria, while also advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
\"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 emphasized during the joint press conference. He highlighted the strong alignment between the two nations in tackling key regional challenges.
Secretary Blinken acknowledged Türkiye's crucial role in influencing Hamas to reach a hostage ceasefire agreement. \"We discussed Gaza, and we discussed I think the opportunity … to get a ceasefire in place. And what we've seen in the last couple of weeks are more encouraging signs that that is possible,\" Blinken stated.
The discussions also covered the expectations for an inclusive interim government in Syria that protects minority rights, rejects extremism, and poses no threats to its neighbors. Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing counter-IS efforts, signaling a continued partnership in maintaining regional peace.
Blinken arrived in Ankara on Thursday after a visit to Jordan, where he met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to further discuss the situation in Syria.
Rubio to Meet Turkish Foreign Minister Amid Key…
China & Turkey Boost Ties in Tech,…
