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Turkey is a key security partner for the UK which has long played an important role
in the Global Coalition’s efforts to defeat ISIL. It is a founding member of the Coalition,
and a critical partner in restricting the flow of foreign fighters and finance to
ISIL across its borders with Syria and Iraq. Its strong support to the Syrian moderate
opposition, including through the US-led Train and Equip Programme, helps bolster
this critical ground force in its struggle against ISIL. More recently, we welcome
Turkey joining the Coalition airstrikes against ISIL in Syria, as well as the opening
of Incirlik airbase to Coalition forces. This is having a real military impact, drastically
reducing the flight times to reach targets in Syria. Furthermore, Turkey is playing
a key role in the humanitarian effort. It hosts more than 2 million refugees fleeing
from Syria and Iraq, and is facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid across the
border.
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