Turkey links Sweden’s NATO bid to US approving F-16 jet sales and Canada lifting arms embargo
Associated PressANKARA, Turkey — Ratification of Sweden’s NATO membership by Turkey’s parliament hinges on the U.S. Congress’ approval of Turkey’s request to purchase F-16 fighter jets, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said, calling on the two legislatures to act “simultaneously.” In comments reported on Tuesday, Erdogan also said Canada and other NATO allies must lift arms embargoes imposed on Turkey. “Positive developments from the United States regarding the F-16 issue and Canada keeping its promises will accelerate our parliament’s positive view on ” Erdogan said. He told reporters that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan raised the issue of a simultaneous approval by Turkey’s parliament and Congress during discussions this week with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The Turkish leader has since linked the matter to Congress approving Turkey’s request to purchase 40 F-16 fighter jets and kits to modernize its existing fleet.