Former Arizona U.S. Senator Jeff Flake has announced that he will step down as the U.S. ambassador to Turkey this September, marking three years since his confirmation.
Flake, who has served under the Biden administration, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity in a heartfelt personal statement.
“When the White House asked me more than three years ago if I would consider serving as an ambassador abroad, my response was ‘Only if it’s to a consequential country.’ Well, the White House overshot the mark by quite a bit. In the calmest of times, Turkey is an important partner. When the world in upheaval, as it is today, Turkey is an indispensable ally,” Flake said in his statement.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to represent the United States of America in this pivotal country, and to strengthen our relationship with this indispensable ally," he continued. "Cheryl and I have been welcomed with open arms by the wonderful people of Turkey, and for that, we are grateful. ”
Appointed by a Democratic president despite his Republican affiliation, Flake highlighted the bipartisan nature of the foreign policy efforts towards Turkey.
“As a Republican appointed to this position by a Democratic president, I am particularly appreciative of the bipartisan nature of our foreign policy toward Turkey. The significant progress made in our bilateral relationship over the past few years owes much to bipartisan support from my former colleagues in the U.S. Congress,” he said.
Flake also reflected on the broader implications of his tenure.
“I will return home from Turkey even more convinced of the essential role that the United States plays abroad, and even more grateful for friends and allies who stand with us in promoting peace and stability in this volatile world," Flake said.
Flake, a longtime Republican, did not say why he’s leaving the post, but he has been outspoken about his disdain for former President Trump and his influence on the GOP.
