Syria’s transitional president, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, arrived in Ankara yesterday at the invitation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The two leaders discussed economic recovery, defense cooperation, and security matters in Syria.
Prior to his visit, Al-Sharaa pledged that the PKK would not be allowed to operate within Syrian territory. Defense ministry officials confirmed that military delegations from both countries recently met to discuss counterterrorism efforts.
Syria’s new administration is working to unify former military forces and various armed groups under a single command structure. Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler stated that Turkey is ready to provide assistance if requested by the new Syrian leadership.
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Economic support on the table
Presidential Communications Director Fahrettin Altun announced that discussions would focus on Syria’s economic recovery and long-term stability. Possible avenues for multilateral support to the transitional administration and the Syrian people are also being explored.
Expanding diplomatic ties
Al-Sharaa’s first international visit as transitional president was to Saudi Arabia. His visit to Turkey is seen as part of efforts to strengthen Syria’s regional ties. Meanwhile, First Lady Emine Erdoğan met with Latife Al-Durubi, the wife of the Syrian leader.
Erdoğan: “Syria’s recovery will have Turkey’s full support”
Following their meeting, Erdoğan and Al-Sharaa addressed the press. The Turkish president reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to supporting Syria in its transition. In response, Al-Sharaa invited Erdoğan to visit Syria.
During his speech, Erdoğan referenced the Syrian civil war, stating:
“Nearly one million of our Syrian brothers and sisters lost their lives due to attacks by the former regime and terrorist organizations. Millions more were forced to leave their homes. Yet, despite everything, the brave people of Syria have never given up their struggle against oppression.”
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Erdoğan emphasized that Turkey’s support for Syria would continue in the new era:
“Today’s historic visit marks the beginning of a lasting friendship and cooperation between our countries. Over the past two months, our institutions have been working intensively to restore our relationship to a strategic level.”
Joint efforts on security and reconstruction
The Turkish president also highlighted joint efforts on security and reconstruction:
“We discussed concrete steps to ensure stability and economic recovery. I am pleased to see that we share a common vision on these matters. We also addressed measures against terrorist groups occupying northeastern Syria. Whether it is Daesh or the PYD, Turkey stands ready to support Syria in all necessary ways.”
Erdoğan further stated that Turkey is prepared to assist in rebuilding Syria’s war-torn cities and critical infrastructure. He also noted that easing international sanctions would help Syria’s reconstruction efforts and facilitate voluntary refugee returns.
Al-Sharaa: “We share a common geography and history”
Al-Sharaa expressed gratitude to Turkey, acknowledging its hospitality and role in supporting Syria:
“The Syrian people will never forget Turkey’s support.”
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He emphasized Syria’s territorial integrity and historical ties with Turkey:
“We share a common geography, culture, and social fabric. The bond between our people will always remain strong.”
The Syrian leader also outlined his administration’s priorities, including deepening strategic cooperation with Turkey in humanitarian, economic, and cultural fields. Security cooperation, particularly in Syria’s north and east, was a key focus of discussions.
Al-Sharaa called for the revival of trade between the two countries and announced plans for infrastructure projects aimed at economic development. He also reiterated Syria’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating a return to the 1967 borders.
Finally, Al-Sharaa invited Erdoğan to visit Syria, expressing hope that the visit would take place soon.
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