BERLIN
US Secretary of State John Kerry said that presence of German Patriot units in Turkey was highly important.
Speaking at a press conference following a meeting with his German counterpart Guido Westerwelle in the German capital of Berlin on Tuesday, John Kerry thanked Germany for increasing pressure on the Syrian regime.
"The presence of German Patriot units in Turkey is highly important. It is also crucial to support the Syrian opposition," Kerry underlined.
Thanking Germany for its support to the US in Afghanistan, Kerry stressed that Germany was one of the most important partners of the US.
Diplomatic solution with Iran
In response to a question on Iran, Kerry noted that talks on Iran's nuclear program continued in Almaty.
It would be wrong to make comments on the talks in Almaty at the present time, Kerry said.
"We will make proposals so that the P5+1 countries (Five permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany) can take solid steps on Iran," Kerry stated.
I do hope that talks taking place today would promote dialogue and Iran could decide to solve the matter by diplomatic solution, Kerry noted.
Rome meeting important for Syria
In response to a question on Syria, Kerry said that they would consider if opportunities existed for them to play an active role at the Rome meeting on Syria on Thursday.
"I will hold talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. However, I can not say anything on the agenda of the Rome meeting," Kerry underlined.
Westerwelle wants free trade zone with US
German Foreign Minister Westerwelle indicated that the Rome meeting on Syria was important.
"The international community has a duty to end clashes in Syria," Westerwelle said.
"We consider the national coalition in Syria as a key partner. The Rome meeting will facilitate an opportunity to discuss steps to be taken to strengthen the national coalition," Westerwelle stated.
On Iran, Westerwelle underlined that they preferred a diplomatic solution for Iran's nuclear program.
"We wish to develop transatlantic relations with th
