US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken had a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. The topic of discussion was the developments taking place in Syria. This was reported by the press service of the US State Department.
“Secretary Blinken discussed the strong US-Turkey regional partnership and our shared interest in supporting a Syrian-led and Syrian-participated political transition to an accountable and inclusive government.
He reaffirmed the importance of all actors in Syria respecting human rights, upholding international humanitarian law and taking all possible steps to protect civilians, including members of minorities," the statement said.
Blinken also emphasized the importance of facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to all those in need. The US Secretary of State also considered it necessary that the coalition fighting the "Islamic State" terrorist group "continues to carry out its mission." Erdogan and Blinken also discussed the need to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, ensuring the return of hostages and humanitarian supplies to the Palestinians.
The Public Relations Department of the Turkish President informed about the meeting that Erdogan initially advocated for the territorial integrity, unity and unitary structure of Syria. At the same time, Erdogan noted that Turkey will take preventive measures against terrorist organizations operating in Syria, at the expense of its own national security.
