The Turkish Defense Minister, Yasar Guler, has expressed satisfaction with the progress towards restoring diplomatic relations with Syria, highlighting the importance of normalizing ties between the neighboring countries.
Guler praised Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s positive response to Turkey’s initiative and emphasized the need for mutual respect and commitment to resolve underlying tensions. He believes that once the issues are resolved, both countries can benefit from a peaceful coexistence as neighbors.
Assad, in a speech to the Syrian People’s Assembly, outlined the conditions for normalization, including the withdrawal of Turkish forces from Syrian territory and the end of support for terrorist groups. He stressed the importance of aligning any future negotiations with international law and the sovereignty of both nations.
The process of normalization began in December 2022 with a significant meeting in Moscow involving the defense ministers of Russia, Syria, and Turkey. Turkey’s military operations in northern Syria, targeting US-backed Kurdish militants, have been a point of contention, with Syria labeling the presence as illegal.
Assad has linked the restoration of relations with Turkey to the end of occupation and support for militant groups, underscoring the need for Turkey to respect Syria’s sovereignty. The ongoing dialogue marks a significant step towards resolving the conflict and fostering stability in the region.
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