The US government’s support for the constructive steps taken to improve Greek-Turkish relations was expressed by President Joe Biden during a telephone conversation he had with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday.

According to the announcement of the American presidency, the two leaders discussed the importance of strengthening the NATO alliance, which includes the need for the immediate integration of Sweden and the strengthening of Turkey’s interoperability with NATO. In this light, they agreed to remain in close contact ahead of the July 2024 NATO Summit in Washington.

The issue of interoperability is an indirect reference to Ankara’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 system, as Washington has repeatedly stressed that this move is not in line with the alliance’s commitment to reduce existing dependencies on Russian weapons systems and improve of interoperability between NATO members.

In addition, in the announcement of the White House there is also a reference to the diplomatic efforts being made for a new Greek-Turkish approach. As it is characteristically noted, “President Biden expressed his support for the recent constructive steps taken in the Greece-Turkey relationship”.

Finally, the two leaders discussed the latest developments in the war in Gaza, with President Biden reiterating his support for Israel’s right to defend itself. In this context, the leaders discussed efforts to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza and the protection of civilians but also the need to have the horizon of a political solution for the Palestinian people.