In a landmark joint press conference held in Ankara, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan outlined a renewed vision for bilateral cooperation, regional stability, and Syria’s post-war reconstruction.
Al-Shaibani declared the fall of the deposed regime as “the end of a dark era that lasted more than 60 years,” during which over one million Syrians lost their lives. He emphasized the country’s rapid transformation, stating, “In just a few months, we have managed to build a state of citizenship and establish a nation founded on justice and pluralism.”
The Syrian minister highlighted the purpose of his visit to Turkey as a step toward “strengthening our strategic partnership based on transparency and dialogue.” He also addressed ongoing talks with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), reaffirming Syria’s commitment to the March 10 Agreement.
“The SDF has been slow in taking the necessary steps, and to this day, we have not reached a practical step toward implementing the agreement,” al-Shaibani said.
For his part, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan echoed support for Syria’s sovereignty and stability, describing recent Israeli military actions as “a dangerous escalation.” He warned that such interventions “would contribute to increased instability” and “affect our national security.”
Fidan praised Syria’s growing international engagement, particularly following President Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s speech at the 80th United Nations General Assembly.
“Syria’s international engagement is growing day by day,” he said, adding that Turkey remains committed to ensuring no external player benefits from Syria’s instability.
Both ministers underscored their shared commitment to combating terrorism, with Fidan affirming Syria’s “strong will to fight Daesh in cooperation with the international community.”
The press conference marks a significant moment in Syrian–Turkish relations, signaling a mutual interest in regional security, reconstruction, and diplomatic normalization.
Mazen Eyon
