Trump, Erdogan discuss on phone US troop withdrawal from Syria

Ankara: United States President Donald Trump and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, during a telephone call, on Thursday (local time) agreed to carry out the US troops withdrawal from Syria in line with their mutual interest, reports the state-run agency Anadolu news agency.

The two leaders also reiterated their countries determination to fight all forms of terrorism.

The phone call came just a few days ahead of the meeting between US Acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Joseph Dunford and the Turkish counterpart
They also agreed to further enhance economic relations, setting a goal of USD 75 billion for trade between the two countries.

During the last telephonic conversation last month, the two leaders decided upon the creation of a safe zone in northeastern Syria which will allow refugees to return home.

In December, Trump announced the complete withdrawal of the troops from Syria, declaring the Islamic States had been defeated there.

The decision has been criticised by many, including the officials in Trump administration.

[source_without_link]ANI[/source_without_link]