Turkish, British defense chiefs discuss Syria

By Aynur Ekiz

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar discussed latest developments in Syria with his British counterpart over the phone on Wednesday, according to Turkey’s Defense Ministry.

According to the Ministry, Akar and British Security Minister Ben Wallace discussed situation in Syria, defense and security issues.

Turkey launched Operation Peace Spring on Oct. 9 to eliminate terrorists from northern Syria in order to secure Turkey’s borders, aid in the safe return of Syrian refugees and ensure Syria’s territorial integrity.

Ankara wants to clear northern Syria east of the Euphrates River of the terrorist YPG/PKK.

Turkey has said the PKK and the YPG/PYD constitute the biggest threats to Syria’s future, jeopardizing the country’s territorial integrity and unitary structure. YPG is the Syrian offshoot of the PKK.

* Writing by Gozde Bayar