US Ambassador to Ankara and Special Representative for Syria and Iraq Tom Barrack said that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and US President Donald Trump respect each other and have mutual understanding. Barrack said the two leaders communicate very well and effectively.
Barrack answered journalists' questions outside Turkish House in New York during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. Responding to a question about the brief meeting Erdoğan and Trump held at a dinner organized as part of the United Nations events, Barrack said the two leaders have great respect for each other.
Barrack said that although Erdoğan and Trump represent different cultures, they are very similar to each other, adding that this made his work on relations between the two countries easier. Barrack said Türkiye was a great friend of the United States during difficult and tense periods, adding that true friends are recognized in such times.
Why was there no bilateral meeting?
Asked why Erdoğan and Trump did not hold a bilateral meeting during United Nations week, Barrack said the two leaders already communicate frequently amid regional instability and tensions. He said there were therefore not many new issues to address and that this was normal.
Responding to a question about whether there had been any new development in Türkiye-US relations, Barrack said relations were at a better point than ever. Barrack said the two leaders got along well and respected each other, adding that this contributed to the relationship.
The S-400 and F-35 files
Barrack said Congress was continuing its work on the S-400 and F-35 issues, which are among the unresolved matters between Türkiye and the United States. He said implementing the relevant provisions of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) and the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) took time.
Emphasizing the great importance of defense cooperation between Türkiye and the United States, Barrack described Türkiye as NATO's second-largest ally. Barrack also said the United States had complete confidence in Türkiye regarding regional alliances.
US-Iran talks
Commenting on the ongoing peace talks between the United States and Iran, Barrack said the parties were taking steps toward dialogue and engagement. Barrack said more talks were being held, adding that this was the right path for everyone.
Barrack said Türkiye was playing a very effective role in the process, adding that the country had good relations with both sides and understood their cultures. Barrack said the process was not a one-off development and that optimism needed to be maintained to end the war.
Barrack said he believed everyone in the region was ready for peace and that the United States was also ready to help establish peace.
