Türkiye’s Priority in Syria: Stability and Combatting Terrorism: Fidan

Ankara, The Gulf Observer: Türkiye’s top priority in Syria is ensuring stability and preventing groups deemed terrorist organizations from gaining control following the potential ouster of regime leader Bashar al-Assad, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated during a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Ankara.

Fidan emphasized that discussions with Blinken focused on the future role of Türkiye, the US, and regional actors in Syria, highlighting efforts to support Syria’s unity, integrity, and sovereignty. The two officials explored how the countries could collaborate to ensure the welfare of the Syrian people amidst the ongoing crisis.

“We discussed how to prevent terrorism in Syria and ensure that groups like Daesh and the PKK do not dominate the country. These are among our priorities,” Fidan said. He noted that both sides engaged in a detailed conversation about addressing these concerns and finding joint solutions to the challenges facing Syria.

The talks also covered the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s call for an immediate ceasefire. He emphasized the urgent need to end the violence, saying, “Both Türkiye and the US, alongside our allies, are working intensively to broker a ceasefire in the region. Unfortunately, the cycle of violence continues. Israel is still killing civilians. We discussed what steps we can take to stop this as soon as possible.”

During his visit, Blinken expressed appreciation for Türkiye’s efforts toward achieving a ceasefire in Gaza and noted “encouraging signs” of progress in that regard. The US Secretary of State also praised President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his leadership in taking the time to meet with him the previous evening.

Fidan and Blinken also discussed bilateral relations, particularly in the defense industry. Blinken reaffirmed that both the US and the Syrian people remain focused on the future, specifically on helping Syria’s population break free from Assad’s regime.

Fidan reiterated President Erdogan’s stance on Syria, underscoring Türkiye’s commitment to preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and unity. Erdogan also affirmed Türkiye’s determination to take all necessary measures to secure its borders and prevent terrorist organizations, such as the PKK, PYD/YPG, and Daesh, from exploiting the ongoing instability in Syria. As the only NATO member to have engaged in direct combat with Daesh, Türkiye’s firm position remains clear: there will be no let-up in the fight against terrorism.

Secretary Blinken’s visit marked the second leg of his tour to address the Syria crisis, following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.