2 countries sign pacts for new political consultation mechanism, cooperation in academies for diplomats
Turkey and Uruguay on Tuesday touted their longstanding ties, as the foreign ministers of both countries signed pacts for establishing a political consultation mechanism and cooperation in academies for diplomats.
Speaking at a joint news conference with his visiting Uruguayan counterpart Francisco Bustillo in the capital Ankara, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said relations between the two countries have gained new momentum.
Telling how relations between Turkey and Uruguay were discussed “comprehensively” in meetings on Tuesday, Cavusoglu described the relations as “positive” and “hopeful.”
Asked about Ankara’s evacuations from the Afghan capital Kabul,Cavusoglu said Turkey has evacuated over 1,400 people from Afghanistan with about 200 more in line to leave.
Of the evacuees, he said, “1,601 of them are our citizens and others are nationals of other countries.”
He also noted that there are about 4,500 Turkish citizens total in Afghanistan.
“We have contacted each of our citizens, called them one by one,” he said.
Underscoring the need for stability in Afghanistan, Cavusoglu said: “Our hope is that peace and stability in Afghanistan will be permanently established within the framework of democracy and human rights. If steps are taken in this direction, Turkey will give our best support.”
“I would like to note that we are in contact with all parties, not just with a particular group,” he added.
Taliban seized control of Afghanistan after taking Kabul on Aug. 15, with the president and other top officials leaving the country.
The unexpectedly fast shift to Taliban rule triggered a rush to flee Afghanistan, with the future in the war-torn country unclear.