Turkish, US top diplomats pledge stronger bilateral cooperation in phone call

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation based on mutual respect and trust during a phone call on January 22.

According to sources from the Turkish Foreign Ministry, Fidan called Rubio to congratulate him on his recent appointment and discuss avenues for collaboration on regional and international issues, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

Both diplomats underscored the importance of coordination between the two NATO allies, reaffirming their commitment to working together on key challenges. The discussion highlighted mutual interests, including maintaining stability in volatile regions such as the Middle East and addressing broader global concerns.

Secretary Rubio, who was recently sworn into office, faces high expectations as he begins his tenure under President Donald Trump. The 53-year-old brings over a decade of foreign policy experience from his 14 years in the U.S. Senate, a background that observers hope will translate into steady leadership at a time of global uncertainty.

Rubio’s appointment has received bipartisan praise in Washington, with lawmakers and former diplomats lauding his expertise and measured approach to diplomacy. However, his hawkish stance on Russia and staunch support for NATO have raised questions about how he will align with President Trump’s “America First” vision.

Speaking to State Department staff on his first day in office, Rubio emphasized his commitment to ensuring U.S. foreign policy strengthens the nation’s security, prosperity, and global standing.

By Vugar Khalilov