Turkey, US launch joint efforts on safe zone in northern Syria

In a Twitter post, the ministry said military officials of both countries discussed the creation of a "safe zone," which is planned to be established jointly by Turkey and the US in a coordinated manner.

Turkish and American military officials will continue to discuss the matter in the coming days, according to the statement.

On Tuesday, Defense Minister Hulusi Akar and US special envoy to Syria James Jeffrey met in the capital Ankara and exchanged views on the issue.

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said before their meeting Tuesday, "If the planned safe zone is not established and threats to Turkey continue, an operation will be launched east of the Euphrates River to oust the YPG from the region."

Last Friday, Akar told acting US Defense Secretary Mark Esper: "The only military force that is ready, competent and appropriate for the establishment of a safe zone in northern Syria is the Turkish Armed Forces."