Foreign Minister Fidan: SDG Should Withdraw from the Process

Critical Meeting in Ankara: Relations Between Syria and Turkey

The Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan, after a meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Esad Hasan Shaybani in Ankara, made striking statements at a joint press conference regarding developments in the region.

The Role of SDG and the Importance of Syria

Minister Fidan stated, "SDG (Syrian Democratic Forces) must be excluded from the equation. Syria is fulfilling the obligations demanded by international communities; therefore, international communities should also fulfill their obligations towards Syria and all sanctions should be lifted." This statement demonstrates Turkey's determination regarding Syria's security.

Fidan continued, "The security of Syria, with which we share a 911-kilometer land border, is critically important for Turkey's security. Threats to Syria's security pose a serious security risk for Turkey." In this context, the stability of Syria is vital not only for the region but also for Turkey's national security.

Hope for Ceasefire in Gaza

Minister Fidan, in his remarks regarding Gaza, indicated that negotiations are ongoing on four main issues and shared that, "If an agreement is reached, a ceasefire will be declared in Gaza today." He stated, "It is essential for all parties to make efforts for the implementation of the plan. A new phase has been reached in the Gaza talks," he indicated.

Unity of Syria and Kurdish Rights

Syrian Foreign Minister Shaybani remarked, "The Syrian people will never forget the support provided by Turkey." He further expressed, "We want to see an entire Syria. We are the ones who advocate for Kurdish rights the most. The Syrian state is committed to supporting all its citizens equally." Shaybani emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy, stating, "There is no longer any justification for division today; we must move forward as a single nation within a single state with different institutions."