Turkiye Foreign Minister Engages with Syria’s New Leadership to Discuss Sanctions and Stability

Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s new leader, on Sunday, discussing support for Syria’s political transition and reconstruction. They called for lifting international sanctions and emphasized unity and stability in the nation. Al-Sharaa urged quick removal of economic sanctions, and both leaders addressed the necessity of protecting minorities in the new governance structure.

On Sunday, Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the head of Syria’s new administration, in Damascus. This meeting occurred shortly after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced Fidan’s visit to discuss the restructured governance in Syria. Fidan assured al-Sharaa of Turkiye’s support in navigating the political transition and restoring the war-torn nation following the downfall of the Bashar al-Assad regime.

Both officials highlighted the critical need for unity and stability in Syria and jointly advocated for the international community to lift sanctions imposed on the nation. In a subsequent press conference, Fidan expressed, “Turkiye will continue to stand by your side … Hopefully the darkest days of Syria are behind [and] better days await us.” He emphasized the necessity of lifting sanctions promptly to facilitate Syria’s recovery and enable the return of displaced citizens.

In his first public address since assuming power, al-Sharaa echoed Fidan’s sentiments, urging the international community to eliminate all economic sanctions. “All the economic sanctions must be lifted, now the predator has gone and only the victims remain,” he stated. He asserted that many of these sanctions originated in the 1970s and that their removal must occur swiftly to advance the country’s recovery.

The discussions between Fidan and al-Sharaa also encompassed the creation of a new constitution that recognizes the rights of Syria’s minorities. Furthermore, they addressed concerns regarding Syrian refugees, the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG), and Israel’s alleged violations of Syria’s sovereignty. Fidan’s visit came amidst ongoing confrontations in northeastern Syria involving Turkiye-backed groups and the YPG.

Al-Sharaa’s engagement with Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt underscored the importance of safeguarding minority rights during the transition. Jumblatt, the first Lebanese figure to meet Syria’s new leaders, expressed hope for improved relations between Lebanon and Syria following al-Assad’s departure. He emphasized the need for a commitment to protect different sects within the country’s diverse population.

As the new Syrian administration asserts its governance, the international community remains attentive to how it will treat various religious and ethnic minorities. Al-Sharaa assured Jumblatt of fair representation for all communities, but ongoing concerns linger about the administration’s tolerance and commitment to inclusivity in post-conflict Syria.

The recent meeting between Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, marks a significant shift in international relations following years of conflict. The discourse revolves around Syria’s transition post-Bashar al-Assad, emphasizing political stability, the reconstruction of the country, and the lifting of international sanctions that have further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. Fidan’s visit implies Turkiye’s pivotal role in supporting the new Syrian administration, which is under scrutiny for its approach towards minorities and internal governance following a decade-long civil war.

Fidan’s visit to Damascus signifies a potential turning point for Syria, as Turkiye pledges support for the new administration’s recovery efforts. Both leaders advocate for the urgent lifting of sanctions to facilitate Syria’s resurgence and ensure the return of displaced individuals. While the new government’s commitment to minority protections remains under observation, the collaborative dialogue emphasizes hope for a unified and stable Syria.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com