Turkey’s President Erdogan has called on US President Trump to lift sanctions on Turkey’s defense industry and reintegrate Turkey into the F-35 program. Erdogan emphasized national security interests and also requested the finalization of the F-16 fighter jet sale. This initiative is part of Turkey’s strategy to enhance relations with Western allies while balancing ties with Russia.
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recently called on President Donald Trump to reconsider the sanctions that were imposed on Turkey’s defense industry in 2020. He specifically urged the United States to reintegrate Turkey into the multinational initiative for the F-35 fighter jet development and production program. Erdogan emphasized the necessity for a change in the US’s perspective to take into account Turkey’s national security concerns, as detailed in a release from his office.
The sanctions in question are part of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) and were initiated following Turkey’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defense system. This decision led to Turkey’s expulsion from the F-35 program due to perceived security risks. Additionally, Erdogan appealed to Trump to expedite the approval process for the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey.
Erdogan’s initiative to strengthen ties with the United States aligns with Turkey’s broader strategy to adjust its foreign policy, aiming for closer relations with Western partners while also maintaining strong links with Russia. Since taking office, Trump has altered US foreign policy, encouraging NATO members to increase their defense expenditures and fostering relationships with Russia. Erdogan appears to be positioning Turkey to benefit from this shift in Washington’s approach.
Moreover, in the statement, Erdogan expressed his endorsement of Trump’s role in negotiating a resolution to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The two leaders also touched upon the situation in Syria, where Erdogan stressed the necessity of lifting sanctions to promote regional stability. A significant concern for him remains the repatriation of Syrian refugees.
In summary, President Erdogan is advocating for the lifting of US sanctions on Turkey’s defense sector and urges for Turkey’s reinstatement in the F-35 program. His discussions with President Trump reflect a strategic attempt to recalibrate Turkey’s foreign policy, enhance relationships with Western allies, and regain access to critical military resources, all while balancing ties with Russia. Erdogan’s calls extend beyond defense to broader regional stability and humanitarian issues in Syria.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
