The first National Security Council (MGK) of 2017 convened in the Presidential Complex in Ankara late Tuesday, emphasizing the country's commitment to fight against terror both at home and abroad after a year of terrible memories with more than a dozen terrorist attacks and a coup attempt.
The closed meeting held under the presidency of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan lasted over eight hours and was attended by deputy premiers, the ministers of Justice, Internal Affairs, National Defense and Foreign Affairs. A statement was released following the meeting.
"The fact that militant groups are supplied by arms paves the way for terror to strengthen. The Council reiterated Turkey's strong commitment to take precautions against disproportionate terror attacks that target our country both at home and abroad," the statement said.
The Council also discussed the Cyprus negotiations which have come a long way since reunification talks resumed in May 2015.
"The Geneva talks, which aim to find a solution to the Cyprus matter, was discussed thoroughly and the steps to protect the rights and interests of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus were also evaluated in the meeting," the statement read.
The statement also touched upon the civil war in Syria and the Astana talks. "Keeping and strengthening the ceasefire and the Astana talks were discussed in detail," it said, adding that Turkey will 'continue to undertake its efforts and responsibilities for starting a political transition in Syria'.
