Syria's Interim Foreign Minister Visits Turkey for Official Talks
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Synopsis
On January 16, Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani met with Turkish President Erdogan and Foreign Minister Fidan during his first official visit to Turkey, discussing Syria's territorial integrity and reconstruction efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Asaad Al-Shaibani's inaugural visit to Turkey.
- Focus on Syria's territorial integrity.
- Turkey's commitment to support reconstruction.
- Importance of lifting sanctions for aid.
- Regional cooperation against terrorism emphasized.
Ankara, Jan 16 (NationPress) Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani engaged with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan during his inaugural official visit to Turkey.
The discussions between Erdogan and Al-Shaibani focused on the latest developments in Syria and the actions needed to uphold the nation's territorial integrity, as stated by Turkey's Communications Directorate on the social media platform X, according to Xinhua news agency.
Erdogan expressed that Turkey will aid in addressing the urgent requirements of the Syrian populace and in the efforts to reconstruct the country, highlighting the necessity of lifting international sanctions against Syria.
Moreover, Erdogan emphasized that there is no place for terrorist organizations in the future of Syria, as added in the statement.
At a joint press conference after the meeting with Al-Shaibani, Fidan stated that the international community could assist Syria in rebuilding its state institutions and enhancing capabilities, advocating for the removal of sanctions to enable the provision of essential public services and to expedite normalization.
According to the Turkish minister, "This will create conditions that allow millions of Syrians to return home."
Fidan further reiterated Ankara's dedication to combating terrorism, providing operational support against the Islamic State (IS), and stressed that regional cooperation is crucial.
"We have already taken measures to provide assistance and are ready to help manage the camps and prisons housing IS detainees," he remarked.
He also reaffirmed Turkey's position against the disintegration of Syria, stating, "We will never agree to the division of Syria. There is no place for terror in the future of the region."
The Turkish minister also proclaimed that Turkey's consulate in Aleppo will resume operations on January 20.
Al-Shaibani characterized the visit as a pivotal moment for Turkish-Syrian relations, remarking, "Turkey and Syria are crafting a new history grounded in brotherhood."
He highlighted the significance of sustaining Syria's territorial integrity and ensuring the central government maintains authority over all regions. "We believe the northeastern regions of Syria should not threaten Turkey and must be unified under our central governance," Al-Shaibani articulated.
He urged the international community and neighboring nations for assistance, stating, "Syria urgently requires support for its reconstruction and the establishment of educational institutions. Through brotherly cooperation, we can restore dignity and normalcy to the Syrian populace."
Turkey has expressed its commitment to the post-conflict reconstruction of Syria, with Turkish officials indicating their readiness to offer logistical support, technical expertise, and investment in vital sectors including construction, agriculture, and energy.
