Biden said he is astonished by the bravery the Turkish people displayed during the failed coup attempt on July 15.
“We praise not only their bravery, but also their devotion to democracy. They sacrificed their lives for their country to stay strong and democratic,” said Biden.
Biden also spoke of the allegations of the U.S. having masterminded the failed coup attempt, noting that the United States had no prior knowledge of the Turkish coup and would never support the treasonous behavior of the military.
“The people of the United States are saddened by what happened. We had no prior knowledge of it. We condemned the incident right after it took place. We stand by the Turkish people against the coup. The people of Turkey have no friend better than the United States. We’re always together for the sake of common values and security,” he said.
As for the issue of Gulen’s extradition, Biden said it depends on legal procedures.
“We’re working with concerned Turkish authorities in this regard. Our law experts are looking into pieces of evidence and documents, which will be submitted to the U.S. court. That’s how we can hand Gulen over. We have no interest in protecting anyone who has done harm to an ally, but we’re obliged to obey the law. It is going to take some time,” he said.
Biden also congratulated Turkey on beginning to fight ISIL, assuring that the coalition will continue to strike ISIL in Syria.
US has no interest in protecting anyone that harmed an ally - Biden
24 August 2016
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As an ally, the United States fully supports Turkey, US Vice President told a press conference with Turkish PM Binali Yildirim, AzVision.az reports citing the Turkish Media.
