'Let's Talk': Obama Conducts Video Conference with Afghan President

 

The President today participated in a video conference with President Ashraf Ghani of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Abdullah.  The President commended the progress made since the leaders met in Washington in March, including on efforts to curb corruption, revive the economy, and improve regional economic connectivity.  The President also praised the Afghan security forces’ performance during the current fighting season.  The leaders discussed ways to continue to strengthen the Afghan National Security and Defense Forces as part of the U.S. train, advise, and assist mission and deepen the close U.S.-Afghanistan partnership to counter threats to Afghanistan and its people.  They also discussed the need to encourage regional cooperation to counter terrorist threats.  The President offered continued U.S. support for the Afghan-led peace process and applauded President Ghani for his efforts to advance reconciliation. The two leaders committed to continuing close consultations in the months ahead.

The President’s Call with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey

The President also spoke today with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan about deepening our ongoing cooperation in the fight against ISIL and common efforts to bring security and stability to Iraq and a political settlement to the conflict in Syria.  The President condemned the July 20 terrorist attack in Suruç, Turkey and the separate July 22 attack in Ceylanpinar, for which the PKK has claimed responsibility. He conveyed condolences on behalf of the American people to the families of the victims, and the two leaders affirmed that the United States and Turkey stand united in the fight against terrorism. The leaders also discussed efforts to increase cooperation to stem the flow of foreign fighters and secure Turkey’s border with Syria. The President reaffirmed the commitment of the United States to Turkey’s national security.  The leaders pledged to continue to work closely on these and other regional issues.

Source: The White House Press Office