Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and U.S. President Donald Trump met at the White House for the first time in six years, reporting "meaningful progress" on regional and bilateral issues.
The leaders set an ambitious target to boost bilateral trade to $100 billion by revising customs duties and streamlining approvals, aiming to turn verbal commitments into real numbers over the next year.
Defense cooperation took center stage as Erdogan pressed to advance talks on F-16 and F-35 fighter jet sales. After TĂĽrkiye's removal from the F-35 program in 2019, the fate of these aircraft has become a symbol of Ankara's balancing act between NATO commitments and relations with Moscow.
In a clear sign of deepening economic ties, Turkish Airlines unveiled plans to order 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and negotiate 150 Boeing 737 MAX jets, pending final engine agreements. The deal could reshape long-haul travel for the airline and highlight TĂĽrkiye's growing role in global aviation.
The two leaders also signed a strategic civil nuclear cooperation memorandum of understanding, laying groundwork for collaboration on energy projects that could diversify TĂĽrkiye's power mix and strengthen ties beyond traditional sectors.
Despite the tight focus on U.S.-TĂĽrkiye issues, discussions also touched on global hotspots. Erdogan and Trump "reached an understanding" on steps toward a Gaza ceasefire and lasting peace, with Erdogan underscoring the importance of a two-state solution for regional stability.
As both sides head home, the real test will be turning headlines into hard data: trade flows, jet deliveries, and progress in Gaza. For young global citizens and business enthusiasts alike, the meeting offers a real-world snapshot of diplomacy in action.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
