Fidan on F-35 talks: Enhancing Turkish-American relations
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, following his meetings in Washington, stated, "The political process concerning F-16s has concluded; what follows is technical."
Regarding the F-35, he mentioned, "We have made national payments, and there are planes we are supposed to receive. Some discussions are ongoing."
During his visit to Washington for the Strategic Mechanism Meeting between the U.S. and Turkey, Fidan briefed Turkish media on his discussions, which included bilateral and regional issues, particularly focusing on the situation in Gaza.
Fidan shared that his conversations with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and Congress members extensively covered the U.S.'s support for YPG/PKK and necessary actions against FETÖ, along with issues in Gaza, Syria, and Ukraine. He emphasized Turkey's firm stance on these matters.
Highlighting the threat posed by the U.S.'s support for YPG/PKK, Fidan stressed, "The Republic of Turkey, within and beyond its borders, is combating all threats and terror groups under legitimate national and international law. Nothing can deter us from this fight."
Fidan expressed Turkey's dissatisfaction with the U.S.'s relations with YPG in Syria, noting the strategic risk it poses between the two NATO allies. He also emphasized the ongoing threat of FETÖ and the steps the U.S. needs to take in this regard.
Regarding Gaza, Fidan detailed discussions on ending the bloodshed in Gaza with American counterparts. He mentioned diplomatic pressure led by Turkey and other countries, forcing Western institutions to take certain steps, especially amid the escalating humanitarian crisis in recent months. Fidan reiterated the consensus on a ceasefire, humanitarian aid access, and stopping civilian casualties as prerequisites for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
On Ukraine, Fidan mentioned comprehensive discussions, highlighting the current unwillingness of Russia and Ukraine to negotiate and the need for a dialogue to prevent further crises.
Fidan also touched on the progress of Turkish-American relations, stating, "We have the opportunity to turn a new page with a renewed psychology and a more positive agenda." He discussed the vision to increase trade volume between Turkey and the U.S. from $30 billion to $100 billion and the importance of exploring mutual potentials and opportunities.
Regarding F-16s, Fidan confirmed the completion of the political process and the beginning of technical processes related to the production and delivery of the aircraft. On the F-35 issue, he reiterated Turkey's position, emphasizing the national payments made and the expectation to receive the aircraft, expressing readiness for open and broad discussions on the matter.
