Biden, Erdogan talk humanitarian aid for Afghans

KABUL (Pajhwok): US President Joe Biden and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan have exchanged views on the political process in Afghanistan.

Following a meeting between the two leaders in Rome, the White House said humanitarian assistance for Afghans also came up for discussion.

Biden commended Turkey’s nearly two decades of contributions to the NATO mission in Afghanistan. He acknowledged Turkey’s importance as a NATO ally.

However, Biden noted US concerns over Turkey’s possession of the Russian S-400 missile system and called for strong democratic institutions, respect for human rights, and the rule of law in Turkey.

In June, the two leaders discussed the possibility of Turkey securing and operating the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul.

However, the plans did not materialise as the Taliban captured Afghanistan amid the chaotic withdrawal of the US military.

PAN Monitor/mud

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