Erdogan, Syrian Leader Discuss Strengthening Ties and Regional Challenges in Istanbul

By Dler Mohammed

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa held a high-level meeting in Istanbul on Saturday, where they pledged to enhance bilateral cooperation across key sectors and addressed pressing regional issues, according to Turkey's state-run Anadolu News Agency.

In the closed-door meeting, the two leaders focused on improving relations between Türkiye and Syria, with an emphasis on bolstering cooperation in energy, defense, and transportation. The discussions marked a notable step forward in efforts to normalize diplomatic and economic ties between the neighboring countries.

“Israel’s occupation and aggression in Syria are unacceptable and Türkiye will continue to oppose it,” Erdogan stated during the meeting, reaffirming Ankara’s firm stance against Israeli military actions in Syrian territory.

For his part, President al-Sharaa expressed gratitude to Erdogan for Türkiye’s ongoing support, particularly in efforts to lift international sanctions on Damascus. He praised Erdogan’s “crucial support” as a key factor in pushing for economic relief and greater international engagement for Syria.

The meeting comes amid shifting dynamics in the Middle East, where geopolitical rivalries are being reshaped by a complex web of conflicts and alliances. Türkiye, which once backed opposition forces during the Syrian civil war, has recently signaled interest in resetting its ties with Damascus as regional actors pursue new diplomatic paths in the post-conflict landscape.

No official joint statement was issued following the meeting, but Turkish and Syrian officials described the dialogue as “constructive,” raising hopes for a new chapter in relations after more than a decade of estrangement and tension.