4 minutes agoPutin, Erdogan concerned by tensions between US and Iran
Periskopi(6 years ago)
(6 years ago)Turkey's President Recep Tayip Erdogan and Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have warned that continued use of force in the Middle East is leading to a new cycle of instability and at the expense of the interests of all. After a closed-door meeting in Istanbul, the two leaders in one [...]
After a closed-door meeting in Istanbul, the two leaders in a joint statement expressed deep concern about the escalation of US-Iran tensions after Tehran attacked Iraqi bases with ballistic missiles used by American forces last night.
The attack was in retaliation for the murder of Iranian General Qasem Solejmani on Friday, under the orders of US President Donald Trump, what Erdogan and Putin called “an act to undermine security and stability in the region”.
The leaders of Turkey and Russia concluded that they were “always against foreign intervention, unilateral military action and sectarian conflicts”, and called for de-progression and diplomacy.
At today's opening ceremony on the Turkish Stream pipeline in Istanbul, Erdogan said Turkey would diplomaticly engage in easing tensions between Washington and Tehran.
No one has the right to throw the region, especially Iraq, into a new fire for their benefit. We will have continued dialogue and consultation with Russia and my dear friend Putin. If so, I believe that with the help of our Russian friends, we will overcome this phase of trouble,” Erdogan said.
Erdogan and Putin also called for a ceasefire in war-torn Libya, while EU officials intensified diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions in the country, negotiating with the Libyan prime minister.
After a meeting in Istanbul, Erdogan and Putin pledged that the ceasefire in Libya will begin on 12 January at midnight.
