Erdoğan says no decision yet on Taliban request for Turkish help at airport

 

Senior representatives from the Turkish Embassy in Kabul and Taliban held a lengthy meeting to establish "healthy" relations and exchange mutual expectations, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has said, informing that Turkey has not yet decided on the Taliban's request asking for help for technical support to run the international airport in Afghanistan's capital.

"The Taliban have made a request regarding the operation of Kabul airport. They say, 'We'll ensure security and you can operate it.' But we have not made a decision yet because there is always a possibility of death and such things there," Erdoğan told reporters at a press conference before his departure to Sarajevo on Aug. 27.

Following Turkey's decision to withdraw its troops deployed at the airport, the Taliban demanded the Turkish government's assistance in continuing the operations of the airport through civilian means. Turkey is not against this option but is demanding certain security and other conditions from the Taliban in the aftermath of deadly bombings in Kabul on Aug. 26.

"We must first see the picture in Afghanistan. There is a serious power vacuum in the country now. We will make our decision after the emergence of the new administration," Erdoğan stated. He said Turkey would take its steps in Afghanistan after the situation is stable and calm, adding that they won't rush to resume commercial flights to Kabul.

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Turkey is pressing on the Taliban to establish an inclusive government with the participation of former Afghan leaders who have a certain level of credibility in the international arena.

3.5 hours meeting with Taliban

Recalling that the Turkish Embassy in Kabul continues its activities from the military...

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