Turkey’s President Erdogan has urged the US to lift 2020 sanctions on its defense industry and reinstate Turkey in the F-35 project. Erdogan aims to strengthen US-Turkey relations while addressing national security interests and the Syria crisis. He also supports Trump’s mediation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has requested that the United States reconsider the sanctions imposed on Turkey’s defense sector in 2020. Specifically, he called for Turkey’s reinstatement in the multinational F-35 initiative, aimed at developing the next generation of military aircraft, during a recent phone conversation with US President Donald Trump.
Erdogan highlighted the importance of addressing Turkey’s national security concerns, as Turkey has faced CAATSA sanctions since 2020 due to its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defense system, which also led to Turkey’s expulsion from the F-35 program. Additionally, Erdogan urged for the completion of the F-16 fighter jet sale to Turkey.
This appeal for strengthened US-Turkey relations is part of a larger strategy by Turkey to realign its foreign policy, fostering closer ties with Western allies while maintaining its relationship with Russia. Since taking office, President Trump has altered US foreign policy, advocating for increased European defense spending and closer ties with Russia.
Erdogan is now attempting to leverage the evolving US stance to Turkey’s advantage after being isolated by the previous US administration. Furthermore, during the conversation, Erdogan expressed support for Trump’s mediation efforts concerning the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The leaders also addressed issues relating to Syria, where Erdogan emphasized the need for sanction relief and efforts to restore stability. A significant priority for Erdogan remains the repatriation of Syrian refugees to their homeland.
In summary, President Erdogan’s requests to the US for lifting sanctions and reinstating Turkey in the F-35 program underscore Turkey’s desire for stronger bilateral relations. Erdogan’s strategic pivot aims to reshape Turkey’s foreign policy and enhance collaboration with Western allies, while also addressing pressing regional issues such as stability in Syria and the refugee crisis. Furthermore, Erdogan’s support for Trump’s mediation in international conflicts reflects a mutual interest in redefining their nations’ diplomatic engagements.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
