Erdogan, Merkel discuss Syria operation and July 15 coup bid

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stressed that a political solution for Syria and stability in the civil war-torn country are necessary for an effective fight against Daesh, during a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the sidelines of the G20 summit in China.

Turkish presidential sources who requested anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to media said Erdogan stressed Sunday that Turkey “will never allow a terror corridor in our south and in Syria’s north”.

He also informed Merkel about Turkey’s Operation Euphrates Shield, launched Aug. 24 with the aim of improving security, supporting United States-led coalition forces, and eliminating the terror threat along Turkey’s border through Free Syrian Army fighters backed by Turkish armour, artillery, and jets.

Merkel reiterated Germany’s support for Turkey’s fight against all terrorist groups, especially Daesh.

The chancellor also underlined that Germany condemned the July 15 coup attempt – which left 240 people martyred and 2,200 others injured – and took the side of democracy.

Erdogan responded by expressing his gratitude for Merkel’s phone calls in support of Turkey after the failed putsch blamed on the Fetullah Terrorist Organisation (FETO) and military personnel linked to it.

The two leaders also agreed on further developing economic, political and cultural ties between Turkey and Germany.

The 11th G20 summit, attended by the leaders of the world’s 20 most industrialized countries, is being held in the coastal city of Hangzhou in Zhejiang province September 4-5.