Turkey Acknowledges Syrian President's Stance on PKK, Discusses Regional Security Cooperation
Speaking at an interview with AA in Ankara on Wednesday, Fidan asserted that Damascus must either expel all foreign PKK members from Syrian territory or eliminate their presence entirely to preserve the country’s unity.
Feb. 5, 2025
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – According to Anadolu Agency (AA), Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa holds a clear and firm stance against the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and People's Defense Units (YPG), designates as a terrorist organization by Turkey, EU and US.
Speaking at an interview with AA in Ankara on Wednesday, Fidan asserted that Damascus must either expel all foreign PKK members from Syrian territory or eliminate their presence entirely to preserve the country’s unity.
Regional Initiative Against ISIS and Border Security Talks
Regarding the fight against ISIS, Fidan announced plans to launch regional initiatives, including the formation of a joint mechanism between Turkey, Iraq, Syria, and Jordan to combat the terrorist organization and prevent its resurgence.
The minister underscored the significance of Tuesday’s meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his Syrian counterpart, Ahmad al-Sharaa, describing it as a pivotal step toward stabilizing Syria, securing borders, and rebuilding key infrastructure.
Read More: Al-Sharaa, Erdogan Discuss Establishing New Turkish Military Bases in Central Syria
Turkey’s Role in Syria’s Reconstruction and Economic Revival
During the discussions, Erdoğan highlighted Turkey’s potential role in Syria’s reconstruction, including enhancing essential services, rehabilitating the energy sector, and improving healthcare and transportation infrastructure.
Fidan noted that Erdoğan has long been committed to public services and social issues, citing his tenure as mayor of Istanbul as an example of his pragmatic approach to governance.
The meeting also addressed border security, economic trade expansion, and strengthening regional cooperation.
The Turkish foreign minister stressed that counterterrorism efforts, particularly against PKK/YPG and ISIS, remain central to Ankara’s discussions with Damascus and other regional actors.
Syria’s Diplomatic Momentum and Growing International Recognition
Fidan described al-Sharaa’s visit to Turkey, his second official trip since assuming office, following his visit to Saudi Arabia as a reflection of Syria’s increasing diplomatic engagement.
He further observed that developments in Syria over the past two months have unfolded at a remarkable pace, with both regional and international actors expressing growing confidence in the new Syrian administration.
Concluding his remarks, Fidan voiced optimism about a rapid and substantial improvement in Turkish-Syrian relations, underscoring Ankara’s willingness to engage with Damascus as part of broader efforts to reshape the region’s political landscape.