US Ambassador to Türkiye and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack has said that the dispute between Washington and Ankara over Türkiye's purchase of the Russian S-400 air defence system "will be resolved."
Speaking to reporters on Monday outside the Turkish House in New York City, Barrack said US and Turkish teams are working "tirelessly" to address bilateral and regional issues.
"The relationship between Türkiye and the United States is closer than ever," he said, adding that the two sides maintain constant dialogue.
Asked about the S-400 issue, he said the dispute stems from US legislation, including the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), and requirements concerning the S-400 system's operational status and ownership.
Barrack said the issue was being worked on and described it as "not a critical issue. It's a relationship issue."
'Positive outcome'
He also highlighted Türkiye's defence industry, saying the country has "a viable defence industry separate from the S-400."
He added that different countries had differing views on how the issue should be resolved while emphasising the broader scope of US-Türkiye relations.
Barrack expressed optimism over bilateral ties, saying the two countries needed to determine what would lead to "a positive outcome."
He described US President Trump's relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as "very strong and appreciative."
The comments came as Erdogan was in New York City for the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, where he is scheduled to address the General Debate on Tuesday.
Barrack earlier said that Erdogan and Trump are expected to meet on the sidelines of the gathering.
