Ankara, 22 November 2021 (TDI): The US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs has visited Ankara. Karen Donfried stated that her incumbent visit to Turkey holds significance for her as the two countries share common interests.
High-level visits planned ‘soon’
Donfried stated that continued opportunities will arise after the visit. The next opportunity will be produced during NATO foreign ministerial meeting for senior-level dialogue. In June 2022, the initiative to set a new strategic direction will be the focus of the NATO summit in Madrid. Donfried stressed that the US will also address Turkey’s concern regarding Greece. She emphasized that Washington seeks to deepen its cooperation with Ankara as well as any other NATO ally.
Committed to deepening cooperation with Turkey
Donfried said, “the United States and Turkey have a robust defense relationship that has many facets to it.” She remarked that recent high-level defense meetings between the two countries will also bear fruit. Ankara’s concern regarding Turkey’$1.4 billion payment in consideration of US F-35 fighter jets was also addressed by Donfried. The defense deal talks are still proceeding with the potential result being refund possibility or sale. Donfried said the US welcomes Turkey’s purchase of F-16 fighter jets.
The US develops legislative requirements to resolve issues
American representatives differentiated the legislative responses against the issues raised regarding Russian projects. The PEESA [Protecting Europe’s Energy Security Act] deals with Nord Stream. The CAATSA [Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act] deals with S-400s. Assurances to treat Turkey differently from India were provided. The premise of favor will be provided in legislative implications based upon the relative context of being a NATO ally.
Furthermore, the White House released an official statement regarding the meeting of Turkish presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin and US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. Both aides discussed political and economic relations, defense, international and regional matters.
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