Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan clarified that the reason for canceling his visit to the United States and the meeting with President Joe Biden is the busy schedules of both parties. Erdogan said in an interview with the Greek newspaper "Kathimerini": "Our visit to the United States was postponed due to the incompatibility of the schedules of both sides. You know that the United States is preparing for elections, and Mr. Biden's agenda has become intensive, and our programs continue actively on both local and international levels, and such visits should occur at a time that is suitable for both parties." He added that discussions about a suitable date for this visit are still ongoing.
In response to a journalist's question about whether he believes the United States should play a mediation role in Turkish-Greek relations, Erdogan stated that Turkey supports maintaining the political balance of the United States in relations between Turkey and Greece. He said: "We believe that an approach that creates a basis for constructive dialogue will be beneficial. Additionally, we have direct communications with Greece without intermediaries, and maintaining and developing these communications will help enhance our relations."
Earlier, the Turkish Foreign Ministry stated that President Erdogan's visit to the United States scheduled for May 9 has been postponed to a later date that is suitable for both parties.
