Mr. Ahmet Davutoğlu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey met with Mr. John Kerry, Secretary of State of the United States of America on April 7, 2013 in İstanbul. Bilateral relations as well as recent developments concerning Palestine, Iraq, Syria and Cyprus were discussed at the meeting.

Speaking at the joint press conference Foreign Minister Davutoğlu said that there are many international issues which Turkey and the U.S. should discuss drawing attention to the intensity of the meetings between the two Foreign Ministers.

Developments in the Middle East Peace Process and possible steps to be taken within the framework of the two state solution were considered at the meeting said Foreign Minister Davutoğlu. Recalling his phone conversations with President of Palestine, Mahmoud Abbas and Head of Hamas Political Bureau, Halid Meshal concerning the Palestinian reconciliation process as well as visits of Secretary Kerry to Palestine and Israel, Foreign Minister Davutoğlu stressed that it is Turkey’s sincere hope that a new process regarding the Palestinian issue begins and this process turns into a result oriented diplomatic activity. “Turkey will support every initiative within the context of the two state solution” highlighted Foreign Minister Davutoğlu.

“Situation in Syria was also on our agenda. We agreed that the Core Group of the Friends of the Syrian People should meet as soon as possible.” said Foreign Minister Davutoğlu. On Iraq, Foreign Minister Davutoğlu stated that Turkey and the U.S. share the view that within the territorial integrity of Iraq, a political dialogue process with the participation of all sides based on sharing of power and resources is essential.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu told that Cyprus issue was also on the agenda. He mentioned that there is a window of opportunity following the elections in South Cyprus and it is time for action with a view to sustainable peace in Cyprus in case this opportunity is used appropriately. “I told Secretary Kerry that we expect the U.S. to deal with Cyprus issue. He mentioned that he also share similar views that the elections in South Cyprus represent a window of opportunity.” said Foreign Minister Davutoğlu.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu stated that the Caucasus, Mali, Somalia and issues in Asia were also discussed in brief.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu also expressed condolences over the killing of young U.S. diplomat, Anne Smedinghoff.