Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan continues discussions with his American counterpart Donald Trump regarding F-35 fighter jets.
“Elchi” reports that Erdoğan stated this to journalists at the Turkish House in New York within the framework of the 81st General Assembly of the United Nations (UN).
Erdoğan noted that he also discussed this issue with Trump within the framework of NATO.
“Mr. Trump has shown a positive will regarding Turkey’s return to the F-35 program. We are now waiting for this will to be translated into concrete steps. We are continuing our contacts regarding this matter. I believe we will achieve results,” the Turkish President said.
Touching upon US-Turkey relations, he emphasized that his relationship with Trump influences cooperation between the two countries.
“Cooperation between the two countries has come a long way compared to the previous administration. I believe it will not stop here and we will reach further goals,” Erdoğan said.
The Turkish President noted that the development of his country’s defense industry is a priority.
“What is important for us is our domestic defense industry. This is very, very important for us. We want to produce our own fighter jets, starting with KAAN, and our air defense systems,” he stated.
Erdoğan also said that negotiations with the UK regarding “Eurofighter” jets are ongoing.
“In the meantime, we held our meeting with the British Prime Minister (Andy Burnham). Our steps and work with them on the ‘Eurofighter’ issue are continuing,” the Turkish leader emphasized.
Erdoğan stated that Turkey has strategic goals in the field of security and defense.
“Turkey has security, defense needs, and strategic goals. We will work for our goals, and God willing, we will not take a step back,” he added.