US 'positive' on Turkish concerns, says Kalin

By Fatma Bulbul

ANKARA (AA) - An aide to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described on Wednesday the Turkish leader’s recent telephone exchange with U.S. President Donald Trump as positive.

Presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said Trump had heard Turkey's demands on establishing a safe zone in northern Syria plus the extradition of U.S.-based Fetullah Gulen.

Gulen is wanted by Turkey for his role in the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO), blamed for the July 15, 2016 coup attempt.

In an interview with Turkish private broadcaster NTV, Kalin also said Syria, the PKK and PYD were discussed by the two leaders.

Kalin said establishing a safe zone in northern Syria was a reasonable solution to prevent a new wave of refugees. He said the Trump administration was also positive on the safe-zone issue.

Though Erdogan has long favored a safe zone, the idea has made little headway with the powers engaged in Syria. However, last month Trump told U.S. broadcaster ABC news he "will absolutely do safe zones in Syria".

Kalin also criticized the administration of former U.S. leader Barack Obama for not taking steps on the extradition of Gulen.

He added the Trump administration was more positive on this issue.