Erdogan Praises Positive Momentum in Turkish-American Relations

New York, The Gulf Observer: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed satisfaction with the recent progress in relations between Türkiye and the United States, during a roundtable meeting with U.S. think tank representatives in New York on Sunday.

“We are pleased with the positive atmosphere in Turkish-American relations in recent times,” President Erdogan stated. He arrived in the U.S. on Saturday ahead of his scheduled address at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday.

Despite the improving relations, Erdogan acknowledged that differences remain on key security issues. “Our differences of opinion with the American administration on some issues concerning our national security continue,” he said, referring to Türkiye’s long-standing objections to U.S. collaboration with the PKK and its affiliated groups, under the pretext of fighting Daesh. Turkish officials have consistently criticized the use of one terrorist group to combat another.

On economic matters, Erdogan highlighted the growing trade relationship between the two nations, with bilateral trade exceeding $30 billion in 2023. “We believe that we can increase this figure to $100 billion,” he added, emphasizing the potential for expanded economic cooperation.

Regarding the upcoming U.S. presidential election on November 5, Erdogan confirmed Türkiye’s close monitoring of the race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. However, he noted that Türkiye’s stance toward the U.S. would remain consistent regardless of the election outcome. “Regardless of who becomes president as a result of the elections, our view of America and our high-level dialogue in our relations will not change,” Erdogan affirmed.

The Turkish president’s visit underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the two nations amidst global challenges.