Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, discussing support for Syria’s transition and calls for lifting international sanctions. Al-Sharaa echoed the need for sanctions removal and emphasized minority rights. This meeting reflects a strategic partnership aimed at stabilizing and rebuilding war-ravaged Syria following the Assad regime’s fall.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye, Hakan Fidan, recently met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the head of Syria’s new administration, in Damascus. During their discussions, Fidan emphasized Turkiye’s commitment to supporting Syria in its political transition and reconstruction post-Assad regime. Both officials acknowledged the critical need for unity and stability in the nation, advocating for the removal of international sanctions against Syria, which has been war-torn for over a decade.
Photographs from the meeting depicted a warm rapport between Fidan and al-Sharaa, demonstrating a diplomatic stride following a declaration from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan regarding Fidan’s visit. In a press conference, Fidan reassured al-Sharaa that Turkiye would continue to support Syria, asserting, “Hopefully the darkest days of Syria are behind [and] better days await us.” He further insisted on the urgent need for sanctions to be lifted to restore Syria’s stability and facilitate the return of displaced citizens.
Al-Sharaa, addressing the press for the first time since assuming power, similarly urged the international community to eliminate sanctions, asserting that the prior regime’s oppressive factors had dissipated. He argued that the economic sanctions implemented during the decades of Assad’s rule should be promptly lifted to propel the country forward. Furthermore, both leaders discussed framing a new constitution that would respect and safeguard Syria’s minority groups, alongside other pertinent issues like the management of refugees and foreign interventions.
Fidan’s visit coincided with ongoing conflicts between Turkiye-backed Syrian forces and the Kurdish YPG, which Turkiye categorizes as a terrorist entity. The country has historically supported opposition groups aiming for the removal of Assad and is now positioned to advocate for the successful governance of Syria alongside the newly established administration. Turkiye’s assistance is seen as pivotal for maintaining institutional integrity within the Syrian state.
In a notable development, al-Sharaa also welcomed Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, demonstrating efforts to foster regional relations and safeguard minority rights in Syria. Jumblatt’s visit marks a significant political shift, as he acknowledged the removal of Assad as a critical juncture for Lebanon-Syria relations. He lauded the Syrian people’s resilience and pledged support for the new government’s commitment to upholding the rights of various sects in the nation, promising equitable representation for all.
In summary, the meeting between Turkiye’s Foreign Minister and Syria’s new leader signifies a potential shift in diplomacy and governance in the region. The call for lifting sanctions and addressing the intricacies of minority representation sheds light on the ongoing challenges for Syria’s future.
The backdrop to this meeting involves the recent shift in power dynamics in Syria following years of conflict that originated in 2011 as a revolt against the Assad regime. The brutal civil war has drawn in various international players and has led to significant human casualties and displacement. With the fall of Assad’s regime, there exists an emerging political landscape necessitating reconstruction and a new governance framework. Turkiye has been a significant supporter of Syrian opposition forces and is now navigating its influence within this changed paradigm to stabilize the region and manage its refugee population.
The meeting between Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa is indicative of a potential recalibration in regional diplomacy post-Assad. Their discussions surrounding the lifting of sanctions and drafting a new constitution reflect a strategic move towards fostering stability in Syria and ensuring minority representation. This collaboration highlights Turkiye’s commitment to assist with Syria’s recovery while promoting unity among its diverse populace.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
