CAIRO – 13 August 2024: U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed their support for the joint statement issued by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, which calls for the resumption of ceasefire talks in Gaza.

In a phone call, Blinken and Fidan underscored the importance of Hamas returning to negotiations on August 15th to finalize a framework aimed at achieving an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza and ensuring the release of all detainees.

Blinken also expressed gratitude for Turkey’s partnership in securing the freedom of American citizens who were detained, an achievement announced on August 1st.

The two ministers discussed the urgent need to end nationwide violence in Sudan and highlighted the importance of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces attending the scheduled talks on August 14th in Switzerland.

Additionally, Blinken voiced his support for Turkey’s mediation efforts between Ethiopia and Somalia.