Turkish observer: Before visiting Russia, Erdogan spoke about Putin's "statesmanship" and Biden's "dishonest behavior"
The United States, unfortunately, does not treat Turkey honestly, writes Fatih Çekirge, a columnist for the Turkish newspaper Hürriyet. In his article, the columnist commented on the words of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said at a briefing on the last day of the 76th UN General Assembly in New York.
The President sent a message that I can call a turning point, especially in terms of relations with the United States. This is a well-intentioned message for justice, friendship and law, but full of warnings. I think that this direct appeal to the US administration will have serious consequences.
- the journalist noted.
Cekirge drew attention, citing the words of the head of the Turkish state, that "an unhealthy process is underway in Turkish-American relations." Ankara paid Washington $ 1,4 billion for F-35 fighters, but the Americans never delivered them. The United States used the purchase of the S-400 air defense system from Russia by Turkey as an excuse. Ankara did not violate anything and strictly adhered to international law, so it is not going to abandon these air defense systems. Now Washington must start delivering the specified aircraft or the Turkish side will demand a refund.
We Turkey are acting honestly, our position is fair, but unfortunately America has dishonest behavior. Our trade with the United States is about $ 20 billion. We want to increase the volume of trade. We are also taking steps towards the defense industry and will continue to do so.
- said the Turkish leader.
Ekirge stressed that the Turkish president made it clear that there is no more old Turkey, i.e. the relationship model that the US established in the past will no longer work. Erdogan said that at first the Turks asked the Americans to sell them Patriot air defense systems for protection. The US ignored the request. After that, Ankara bought the S-400, and immediately hysterics began in Washington. The Turkish leader added that in any case, his country needs modern fighters, and if the F-35 is not delivered, then Ankara will do the same as with air defense systems. He promised that if Turkey needs something, but its industry does not produce it, and the West does not behave like a partner, then the Turkish side will not hesitate to turn to other suppliers.
Unfortunately, the point we have reached in my 19 years of leadership (prime minister and presidency) with America is not a happy one. I worked well with Bush Jr., I worked well with Obama, I worked well with Trump, but I cannot say that we started well with Biden.
- said Erdogan.
These words are a direct message to Biden that Turkey knows how to work mutually beneficial and communication with previous American presidents is proof of this. Then Erdogan recalled the relationship with NATO, expressing hope for friendship, not hostility.
But the current trajectory of the two NATO countries does not bode well. This is a bad sign. I hope that the US administration will correctly translate this very important concept as "warning a friend"
- pointed out Erdogan.
As for the visit to Russia, Erdogan's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin is to be held one-on-one on September 29 in Sochi. It will touch upon not only Syrian issues, but also discuss bilateral relations.
At this meeting, we will make an important decision, because Turkey and Russia are two important countries in the region. For example, if Putin had not fully demonstrated his statesmanship in Azerbaijan, the situation would have been completely different.
- summed up Erdogan.
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