President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed optimism regarding recent developments in U.S.-Türkiye relations during a roundtable meeting with representatives from American think tanks on Sunday. His remarks came as he prepared to address the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday.
“We are pleased with the positive atmosphere in Turkish-American relations in recent times,” Erdogan stated, emphasizing a desire to strengthen ties. However, he acknowledged ongoing differences, particularly concerning national security issues. “Our differences of opinion with the American administration on some issues concerning our national security continue,” he added.
Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s longstanding concerns about U.S. cooperation with the PKK/YPG terrorist group and its affiliates in the fight against the Daesh. “Using one terrorist group to fight another makes no sense,” he remarked.
On the economic front, Erdogan noted that bilateral trade volume exceeded $30 billion in 2023 and expressed confidence that it could reach $100 billion. He remarked, “We believe that we can increase this figure to $100 billion.”
As the U.S. approaches its presidential election on November 5, Erdogan stated that Türkiye is closely monitoring the race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. “Regardless of who becomes president as a result of the elections, our view of America and our high-level dialogue in our relations will not change,” he affirmed.
Erdogan also highlighted Türkiye’s commitment to international law, state sovereignty, and territorial integrity, stressing the need for reform within the United Nations to address global crises effectively. “We believe that strengthening multilateralism is essential in today’s world,” he said.
Addressing the humanitarian situation in Gaza, Erdogan condemned recent violence and urged for a ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian aid access. He noted that the Israeli government’s actions are exacerbating the crisis, calling for increased international pressure on Israel.
Erdogan emphasized Türkiye’s role as a strong NATO ally, citing ongoing discussions on defense cooperation and expressing hope for resolving existing trade and security disagreements. “Türkiye, as one of NATO’s strongest allies, will continue to engage with both Western and Eastern partners,” he concluded.
