ISTANBUL, Jan 21 — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday highlighted the importance of maintaining strong ties with United States (US) President Donald Trump, following his return to the White House.
"It is very important for us to maintain the same friendship we had in Trump's first term," Erdogan said. He also welcomed Trump’s assertion that he will quickly end the Russia-Ukraine war, stating that Türkiye is ready to contribute to peace efforts.
"Turkiye is in favour of peace. With this peace, we believe that the solidarity between countries in the world should continue. War will get us nowhere," he added, emphasising the need for urgent diplomatic action.
Erdogan said he will discuss these matters with Trump in future meetings and take the necessary steps accordingly.
Turning to the Gaza ceasefire deal, Erdogan called for its full implementation and stressed the need for uninterrupted humanitarian aid to the enclave.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Ankara with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, Erdogan urged the international community to ensure that Israel fulfills its responsibilities in the three-phase truce, which began on Sunday.
The ceasefire saw Hamas release three Israeli hostages, while Israel freed 90 Palestinian prisoners.
"Turkiye is committed to the establishment of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state, based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital," Erdogan reiterated.
Erdogan also underscored the importance of lifting international restrictions on Syria, advocating for reconstruction efforts.
— Bernama-AA
