Following an improved security posture and diplomatic relations, the United States Embassy in Turkey says it will resume issuance of non-immigrant visa to Turkish nationals on 'a limited basis'. The Embassy made the disclosure in a statement posted on its website on Monday. The statement is coming one month after the Embassy suspended the service following the arrest of a US consulate staff member in Istanbul for allegedly having ties Fethullah Gulen.
The statement read in part;
"We believe the security posture has improved sufficiently to allow for the resumption of limited visa services in Turkey." It added that "a reduced number of interviews will be scheduled to process the applications."
In response to the announcement, Turkish Embassy in the United States says it will also resume issuance of non-immigrant visas to United States citizens albeit 'on a limited basis' this week. Turkey had also suspended the visa issuing services in retaliation to US action.
The announcement is expected to form part of the discussions the Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirm would have with US officials when they meet in the United States on Tuesday. Apart from the visa issue, the Prime Minister would also reiterate Turkey's call for the extradition of Fethullah Gulen who was accused of sponsoring a failed coup last year.
