The physical assault on US soldiers in Istanbul yesterday by some fringe elements is both reprehensible and unacceptable. I strongly and unequivocally condemn this grotesque act. The relevant Turkish authorities are conducting a full investigation and those responsible will pay the price for their actions.

All foreigners in Turkey, official or not and regardless of their nationality, race, religion or belief are our guests and enjoy full protection under law. We will take all necessary precautions to ensure that such isolated incidents do not occur again.

In the name of the Turkish nation, I offer my sympathies to those US soldiers who were assaulted and reassure them that, as always, and through thick and thin, the people of Turkey welcome them and all their brothers and sisters in arms, into their homes and hearts as long standing friends and partners. Turkey and the US are indispensable allies, partners and friends and our bilateral relations continue to not only be robust and resilient, but also vital for the maintenance of regional and international peace and security.

H.E. Mr. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey