US congratulates Turkish people on "peaceful" election, expresses confidence in democratic process
The United States has extended congratulations to the Turkish people for successfully conducting nationwide presidential and parliamentary elections in a peaceful manner.
John Kirby, the spokesperson for the National Security Council, commended the Turkish citizens for expressing their preferences through the ballot box and emphasized President Joe Biden's eagerness to collaborate with the eventual winner of the presidential race.
Although it appears likely that a runoff will take place between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, Kirby stated that the Turkish people have the authority to shape their government and that their participation in the voting process is a testament to their commitment as citizens.
The US State Department also expressed confidence in the democratic process in Turkey, recognizing the country's longstanding democratic tradition.
Deputy Spokesman Vedant Patel affirmed that the United States anticipates strengthening alliances and cooperation with the elected Turkish government in accordance with Türkiye's laws, OCDE commitments, and its role as a NATO ally.
The announcement of a second-round runoff on May 28 was made by the head of Turkish election authority, as no candidate secured an outright majority in the initial election held on Sunday. (ILKHA)