Obama stresses 'unwavering support' for Turkish govt

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) – President Barack Obama reiterated the U.S.’ “unwavering support” for Turkey’s “democratically-elected, civilian Government” during a Situation Room meeting with his national security and foreign policy teams, the White House said Saturday.

During their morning meeting on Turkey, Obama instructed U.S. officials to continue their work with their Turkish counterparts “to maintain the safety and well-being of diplomatic missions and personnel, U.S. servicemembers, and their dependents,” the White House said in a statement.

“The president also underscored the shared challenges that will require continued Turkish cooperation, including our joint efforts against terrorism,” it added.

On Friday night, renegade elements within Turkey’s military attempted to stage a coup against the government.

Although the coup was soon put down by the country’s legitimate authorities and security apparatus, some 160 people were martyred in the violence, according to Prime Minister Binali Yildirim.

Obama "and his team lamented the loss of life and registered the vital need for all parties in Turkey to act within the rule of law and to avoid actions that would lead to further violence or instability," the White House said.

Yildirim has declared July 15 a "day of democracy."