Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Ankara for critical discussions on Syria and Gaza. The meeting, which lasted about one and a half hours, focused on both countries' shared concerns regarding regional stability.
Syria's future: Both ministers discussed the role of Türkiye and the U.S. in shaping Syria's future, particularly focusing on stabilizing the region, preventing terrorism, and countering groups like PKK/YPG and Daesh.
ANKARA, TURKIYE - DECEMBER 13: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (not seen) hold a joint press conference after their meeting in Ankara, Turkiye on December 13, 2024. ( Murat Gök - Anadolu Agency )
FM Fidan meets Blinken to discuss Stability in Syria, ceasefire in Gaza
ANKARA, TURKIYE - DECEMBER 13: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (not seen) and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan hold a joint press conference after their meeting in Ankara, Turkiye on December 13, 2024. ( Murat Gök - Anadolu Agency )
Gaza ceasefire: Fidan and Blinken agreed on the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, with both nations working together, along with other partners, to reduce violence in the region.
Ongoing violence in Gaza: The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties, with both the U.S. and Türkiye expressing concern over the situation.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) shakes hands with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (L) during a reception at Esenboga Airport in Ankara, Türkiye on December 12, 2024. (AA Photo)
Erdogan's meeting with Blinken: Prior to the talks with Fidan, Blinken was received by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, where discussions covered Türkiye-U.S. bilateral relations, developments in Syria, and broader global issues.
Why it matters?
The meeting between Fidan and Blinken reflects continued cooperation between Türkiye and the U.S. on key regional issues, particularly in the Middle East. The shared focus on stabilizing Syria and halting violence in Gaza highlights the pressing need for diplomatic solutions in volatile regions.
What’s next?
Both countries are expected to continue working together, alongside other international partners, to address the ongoing crises in Gaza and Syria. Efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and ensure regional stability in Syria will remain a priority in upcoming discussions.
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