Turkish FM talks of normalization with Syria, nuclear war risk, PKK
Regarding Sulaimani province, he stated, "They haven't taken any encouraging steps regarding their relationship with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Therefore, we won't take steps to appease them and will continue our measures against them."
Nov. 24, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) - Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated on Sunday, that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's demands are hindering progress in bilateral relations, while also expressing serious concerns about the growing risk of nuclear conflict globally.
During a press conference, Fidan revealed that despite Turkey extending a significant offer to Syria, "the Syrian side appears unwilling to evaluate certain issues." He noted that Syria's reluctance extends even to negotiations with opposition groups, relating to proposals presented by Russia and Iran.
"It's not a solution for Syria to tell us 'let's make an agreement, I'll fight terrorism, but you must leave my borders and stop interfering,'" Fidan explained. He emphasized that this approach fails to address crucial issues like border security, counter-terrorism efforts, and arms trafficking prevention, particularly along the Iraq-Syria border.
Regarding Sulaimani province, Fidan maintained a firm stance, stating, "They haven't taken any encouraging steps regarding their relationship with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Therefore, we won't take steps to appease them and will continue our measures against them."
He emphasized that relations would normalize only when Sulaimani ends its ties with the PKK, noting that "Turkey is a major country, and maintaining good relations with us would benefit them."
Addressing nuclear war concerns, Fidan highlighted the seriousness of recent nuclear rhetoric. He cited Russian President Vladimir Putin's statement about potential nuclear weapons use if conventional defense fails against missile attacks on Russian territory, and Ukraine's response refusing territorial concessions despite nuclear threats. "This is not a joke," Fidan warned.
Turkey-Syria relations have remained strained despite recent diplomatic efforts at normalization. The situation is complicated by various factors, including Turkey's military presence in northern Syria, counterterrorism operations, and refugee issues.
Additionally, Turkey's ongoing conflict with the PKK has regional implications, affecting its relationships with various Kurdish regions, including Sulaimani province in Iraqi Kurdistan. The mention of nuclear war risks reflects growing international concerns about escalating tensions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and its potential global implications.