Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Turkey will support Syria in state restructuring and drafting a new constitution, collaborating with Syrian leaders, including Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham. Erdogan emphasized the importance of inclusive governance and intends to assist in critical areas, while also addressing security concerns over Kurdish groups near Turkey’s borders.
On Friday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced Turkey’s commitment to aid Syria in the restructuring of its state and the drafting of a new constitution following the recent upheaval that led to the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. Erdogan expressed that Turkey is currently collaborating with leaders, including Ahmed al-Sharaa of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), on this crucial constitutional project, which he regards as a key step in shaping the nation’s future.
During an official trip to Cairo, the President emphasized that Turkey would share its experiences with the new Syrian administration and stressed the importance of establishing an inclusive constitutional framework and a stable political system. Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed Jolani, recently indicated a desire for strategic relations between Syria and Turkey. Erdogan mentioned that Turkey would continue to support the administration in vital sectors like energy, humanitarian assistance, and reconstruction efforts in the aftermath of prolonged conflict.
Furthermore, Erdogan noted that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan would make a forthcoming visit to the region to collaborate on building the new governmental structure. The Turkish government considers the reconstruction of Syria essential to facilitating the return of approximately three million Syrian refugees currently residing in Turkey. Additionally, Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s stance against Kurdish separatist groups, emphasizing the ongoing threat they pose along Turkey’s southern borders, particularly concerning the PKK and its affiliates in Syria.
The topic of Turkey’s involvement in Syria involves a complex backdrop of regional politics influenced by the Syrian civil war, which has been ongoing since 2011. Turkey has been a key player in the conflict, supporting various opposition groups and seeking to influence the post-Assad political landscape. The recent changes in Syrian leadership have created a unique opportunity for Turkey to engage more directly in state-building efforts, particularly in the context of broader geopolitical adjustments following the Assad regime’s challenges. Moreover, Turkey is focused on addressing its national security concerns, especially relating to Kurdish militias in neighboring Syria.
In summary, President Erdogan’s declaration reflects Turkey’s strategic intention to assist Syria in governance and constitutional reform while addressing significant security concerns regarding Kurdish groups. The cooperation with HTS leaders and the commitment to support reconstruction efforts underline Turkey’s nuanced role in shaping a new political landscape in Syria. Additionally, there is an urgent focus on facilitating the return of refugees and enhancing energy resources as vital components of this collaboration.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net