Türkiye, US focus on defence cooperation, regional peace in Washington talks

Türkiye's Finance Minister, Mehmet Şimşek, continued his diplomatic and financial discussions in the United States, participating in a series of high-level meetings. 

While in Washington, Şimşek met with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

The Turkish Ministry of Finance issued a statement highlighting that the meeting took place in a constructive environment and was attended by Türkiye's Central Bank Governor, Fatih Karahan.

During the discussions, both sides underscored the importance of lifting existing restrictions, particularly in the areas of investment, trade, transportation, and energy cooperation. Special emphasis was placed on enhancing defence collaboration and addressing existing limitations in this field.

The talks also addressed steps that both Türkiye and the U.S. could take to ensure regional peace and stability. A key topic was the lifting of sanctions on Syria, with proposals for Türkiye's potential role in facilitating a ceasefire and contributing to peace efforts in Ukraine.

Earlier in the week, Minister Şimşek also met with representatives from over 25 major U.S. investment firms in New York, collectively managing assets exceeding $4 trillion. This meeting, organised by the Türkiye-U.S. Business Council in collaboration with Citi Group, provided a platform for Şimşek to present Türkiye's economic opportunities and future government plans.

Additionally, Şimşek met with senior officials from three of the world’s leading credit rating agencies, further emphasising Türkiye's economic outlook.

The Turkish delegation, led by Minister Şimşek, is in the U.S. for key events hosted by the International Monetary Fund, the G20, and the World Bank, aiming to foster deeper international economic cooperation and engagement.

By Tamilla Hasanova