US Secretary of State engages in talks with Turkish, Armenian leaders

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has held discussions with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, focusing on regional security, trade, and diplomatic cooperation.

According to State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, Rubio met with Fidan to reinforce cooperation on key security and economic matters. He praised Turkey’s role in the global coalition against ISIS and underscored the need for close collaboration in ensuring a stable and unified Syria. Additionally, the Secretary highlighted progress in US-Turkey trade relations and called for deeper economic ties.
However, Rubio also raised concerns over recent arrests and protests in Turkey, signaling US apprehension over political developments in the country.

In a separate call with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Rubio reiterated Washington’s support for the recently signed peace agreement with Azerbaijan. The two leaders emphasized the need for lasting peace in the South Caucasus to prevent further conflict and ensure regional stability.

“The Secretary and the Prime Minister agreed that any form of escalation in the South Caucasus is unacceptable,” a State Department spokesperson added.