The Russia-Ukraine crisis has offered Turkey an opportunity to position itself as a key player in the region's affairs, and for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to repair ties with Washington following years of tension.
Mr. Erdogan and President Biden discussed Russia’s attack on Ukraine and Turkish-American relations in a phone call following a Russia-Ukraine summit brokered by Turkey in Antalya.
Mr. Erdogan told Mr. Biden that Turkey is playing the role of a facilitator and is seeking a political solution to the Russia-Ukraine crisis, according to the Turkish president's office. He said that holding the meeting on Thursday between the foreign ministers of Ukraine and Russia was in itself a diplomatic victory, the office said.
He also asked Mr. Biden to remove what he called unjust sanctions on Turkey's defense industry, according to the Turkish president's office. The U.S. imposed sanctions on Turkey in response to Mr. Erdogan's decision to buy a Russian air-defense system in 2017.
Mr. Erdogan said that he expected Turkey's request to buy 40 new F-16 fighter jets from the U.S. to reach a conclusion soon. Turkish and some U.S. officials say such a sale could help mend the frayed defense relationship with the U.S.
President Biden expressed appreciation for Turkey’s efforts toward a diplomatic resolution, and the two presidents discussed opportunities to strengthen bilateral ties, the White House said.
No comments:
Post a Comment