US Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John Warner met with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara on Thursday, following earlier stops in Afghanistan and Iraq. Warner expressed appreciation for Türkiye's contributions to stability and democratic development in both countries.
On the situation in Iraq, Warner said a civil war was not imminent, citing the ongoing government formation process and the growing capacity of Iraqi security forces. He stressed that a broad-based, inclusive government was critical for Iraq and its allies, and that Türkiye's role in encouraging Sunni participation in the political process had been particularly valuable.
Regarding Iran, Warner warned that Tehran's nuclear program ran counter to the interests of Türkiye, neighboring states, and the wider international community. He expressed hope that a diplomatic resolution could be reached through the European Union, the United Nations, and related institutions.
Senator Carl Levin added that the delegation had emphasized the importance of a unified Iraqi government during the Ankara talks, and that Erdoğan had expressed agreement with that position.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in March 2006, in its own words.