Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Monday evening, reaffirming his country’s support for lasting peace in the region and the steps to be taken for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during the call, the two presidents discussed bilateral relations between Turkey and the United States, as well as regional and international developments. President Erdogan emphasized the importance of maximizing diplomatic efforts to address the tension between Iran and the United States, expressing his hope for the continuation of talks between the two sides.

Erdogan indicated that Turkey will continue to support peace efforts, stating, “We stand firmly in ensuring regional stability and security through the Mecca Agreement for Joint Defense, which Turkey signed with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.” The Turkish president noted that the current period aims to move to the second phase of the Gaza peace process, while also pointing out an increase in Israeli violations targeting Palestinians.

Erdogan reiterated that Turkey will continue to support lasting peace in the region and the steps to be taken for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.