Turkey’s FM Meets Syria’s New Leadership to Advocate for Sanction Lifting and Stability
Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, met Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to discuss aid for Syria’s political transition and reconstruction. Both officials called for the lifting of international sanctions, stressing the need for stability. They also addressed the need for minority rights in Syria’s governance while continuing to grapple with regional complexities amidst ongoing conflict.
On Sunday, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Syria’s newly appointed leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Damascus. This meeting followed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s announcement that discussions regarding Syria’s political transition were forthcoming. Fidan emphasized Turkey’s commitment to aiding Syria in its rebuilding efforts and transitioning following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime.
Fidan and al-Sharaa underscored the importance of stability in Syria, advocating for the immediate lifting of international sanctions. Fidan highlighted the need for the global community to support Syria’s recovery and facilitate the return of displaced individuals. In this context, he stated, “Sanctions on Damascus must be lifted as soon as possible.”
During their discussions, al-Sharaa stressed that all economic sanctions should be removed now that the Assad regime has fallen. He asserted, “All the economic sanctions must be lifted, now the predator has gone and only the victims remain.” The two officials also discussed drafting a new constitution to safeguard minority rights and addressed issues including Syrian refugees and violations of Syrian sovereignty by Israel.
Fidan’s visit came amid continued violence in northeastern Syria, where Turkish-backed factions are currently engaging with the Kurdish YPG, which Turkey classifies as a terrorist organization. Turkey has historically supported opposition forces against Assad and continues to host a significant number of Syrian refugees.
Additionally, al-Sharaa met with Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, a notable politician who discussed the importance of protecting the rights of minorities. Jumblatt’s visit marked a significant step in improving relations between Syria and Lebanon following the Assad regime’s decline, as he acknowledged the Syrian people’s struggle against tyranny. “We salute the Syrian people for their great victories,” Jumblatt stated.
The recent meeting between Turkey’s Foreign Minister and Syria’s new leadership reflects a crucial pivot in Syria’s political landscape after years of conflict. Following the civil war, which began in 2011, the international community imposed sanctions against the Assad regime, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The new administration led by al-Sharaa is attempting to redefine Syria’s governance and establish a stable political framework while advocating for international support to address the dire socio-economic conditions facing the country. The discussions have also addressed the sensitive issue of minority representation and regional relations, particularly concerning Lebanon.
In summary, the meeting between Turkey’s Foreign Minister and Syria’s new leader signifies an important step toward stability and reconstruction in Syria. Both officials expressed the necessity for international sanctions to be lifted, emphasizing that this is critical for facilitating the country’s recovery. Moreover, the ongoing discussions include ensuring the protection of minority rights in the new political framework, highlighting the complexities of Syria’s transition post-conflict.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
