US President Barack Obama and Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan held a lengthy phone conversation this week to discuss developments in Syria and the launch of talks aimed at reaching a settlement in Cyprus.
Following the re-launch of the Cyprus talks, both leaders agreed to hold a telephone discussion on that development and the Syria issue. Officials say that the call lasted for 90 minutes while they exchanged views on strategic topics
Diplomatic sources, speaking on condition of anonymity said that the ongoing corruption investigation and the Turkish government’s latest legislation on its judiciary and internet system were not on the topic list.
The White House issued this statement late Wednesday evening:
“President Obama spoke by phone today with Prime Minister Erdoğan of Turkey on a range of bilateral and regional issues. The president affirmed the value he places on a strong, mutually respectful bilateral relationship with the Republic of Turkey and expressed his view that Turkey can demonstrate leadership in the world through positive engagement.”
Obama and Erdogan agreed on the importance of close cooperation between Turkey and the United States to address the growing terrorist presence in Syria and on the shared interest in continuing efforts to advance a political solution to the Syria conflict.
President Obama also thanked PM Erdogan for his positive role in supporting efforts to re-launch the Cyprus negotiations.
“The leaders also discussed the need for strong, sustainable, and balanced growth in the global economy, and the president noted the importance of sound policies rooted in the rule of law to reassure the financial markets, nurture a predictable investment environment, strengthen bilateral ties, and benefit the future of Turkey,” the White House statement added.
