US Special Envoy George Mitchell’s remarks following his meeting with Prime Minister Erdogan

February 26, 2009, PM Residence, Ankara

 Good morning ladies and gentlemen.  I want to publicly thank President Gul, Prime Minister Erdogan and Foreign Minister Babacan and the Turkish government and people for their hospitality and for their advice. 

Turkey is a crucial ally of the United States and an important force for peace and security in the Middle East.  As an important democratic nation with strong relations with Israel, it has a unique role to play and can have significant influence on our efforts to promote comprehensive peace in the Middle East.

I’m here today because President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton and the US appreciate Turkey’s continuing commitment to a comprehensive peace and to a two-state solution.  We welcome Turkey’s participation in the upcoming Donor Conference in Sharm al-Sheikh.  And we look forward to its leadership as we actively pursue peace beginning with a durable ceasefire and with strong efforts to meet the humanitarian needs in Gaza.

As I’ve discussed with the PM and with other members of the government, it’s important for us now to look forward and to work together to build a secure and prosperous future for all of the people of this region

Thank you very much for your presence here today.