Turkish Foreign Minister's Visit to the US: New Avenues of Cooperation

Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is set to travel to the United States for crucial talks – marking his first visit since Donald Trump began his second term.

This was reported by Hurriyet Daily News, with confirmation from "European Truth".

During his visit to Washington, Fidan is scheduled to meet with Secretary of State Marco Rubio on March 25-26.

Unnamed sources among Turkish diplomats have indicated that discussions will focus on the bilateral relations between Turkey and the US, along with preparations for future leader-level visits.

Just prior to this, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held his first phone call with Trump.

Key topics expected to be covered include efforts to halt the war in Ukraine, recent developments in Syria, and matters of bilateral cooperation, particularly in defense industry projects. Fidan will also raise the issue of lifting US sanctions under CAATSA imposed in 2020 and Turkey's return to the F-35 program, from which it was removed after acquiring Russian S-400 missile systems.

It is worth noting that the negotiations regarding sanctions and fighter jets were a significant reason for Turkey's prolonged hesitance in approving Finland and Sweden's NATO membership.

Sources indicate that regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, Fidan plans to remind of Ankara's peace initiatives over the years and convey that Turkey is prepared to support US efforts towards a ceasefire, leading to a lasting peace agreement.

Fidan will encourage the US to lift sanctions on Syria, where the power dynamics have shifted, and to collaborate on humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts.

Discussions will also include cooperation in the fight against ISIS and oversight of detention facilities and camps in eastern Syria. The Turkish minister will urge the US to "leverage its influence over Israel" for a sustainable ceasefire in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.