"The two leaders discussed the current security environment in Syria and the Middle East in addition to other mutual items of interest," Joint Staff Spokesperson Col. Patrick S. Ryder said in a press statement on April 27.

"They additionally discussed ways to strengthen cooperation to address security concerns facing our nations," he said.

According to Hurriyet daily Ryder also emphasized that Dunford and Akar had met multiple times as part of maintaining regular communications between NATO allies.

The Turkish General Staff said Akar and Dunford discussed regional security issues and exchanged views on mutual cooperation, according to a statement.

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