Turkish Parliament’s National Defense Committee chair meets US Ambassador Jeff Flake

Turkish Defense Committee Chairman Hulusi Akar meets with U.S. Ambassador Jeffry Flake to discuss bilateral relations, Greece, F-16 and F-35 processes

Turkish Parliament’s National Defense Committee Chairperson Hulusi Akar received the U.S. Ambassador to Ankara Jeffry Flake at the AK Party Group Management Hall.

After the meeting that lasted about 45 minutes, Akar thanked the ambassador for the recent high-level visits contributing to the development of relations between the two countries. He emphasized the strategic importance of cooperation with Türkiye, highlighting its benefits not only for their bilateral relationship but also for NATO, the European Union, and regional stability.

Akar stated that Türkiye continues its efforts in accordance with international law and good neighborly relations, saying, “We have told them that we are combating all kinds of terrorism, we will continue to do so, and we expect our friends and allies to contribute to our fight against terrorism, which is our natural right.”

Greece, F-16, F-35 discussed

Akar also highlighted the recent improvement in relations between Türkiye and Greece, stating, “We have always expressed our preference for good neighborliness in the Aegean. We have emphasized that our brothers in Cyprus have rights and law, and they should be respected.”

When asked if the issue of Türkiye’s F-16 procurement process was on the agenda, Akar replied, “There is no need for it to be, the normal process continues.”

Regarding F-35s, Akar said, “F-35 is only a matter of discussion and negotiation. They are ongoing between the relevant ministries and the relevant units.”

In response to a question about whether the ambassador had any requests, Akar mentioned that they discussed establishing a dialogue between the defense industry and parliamentarians in addition to what he had already mentioned.

Akar expressed optimism about the current state of relations between Türkiye and the United States, describing them as “very good.” He attributed this improvement to recent meetings between President Erdogan and Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu with their American counterparts. Akar emphasized the importance of mutual trust in fostering a stronger relationship between the two countries.

Source: Newsroom