Syrian and Turkish Foreign Ministers Chart New Era in Bilateral Ties

Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad met with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan in Damascus to discuss regional developments and specifically "Israeli violations" within Syrian territory. Fidan stated that Israeli policies are the primary obstacle to Syria's stability, arguing they empower terrorist groups and complicate the regional situation. He also revealed that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is planning a visit to Damascus in the near future, a move seen by observers as a significant step towards improving bilateral relations.

Fidan emphasized Turkey's view that Syria's stability is an "urgent regional necessity," asserting that Israeli actions hinder this goal and create openings for terrorist organizations. He outlined Turkey's aim to forge a "strategic partnership" with Damascus encompassing security, political, and economic cooperation, highlighting Erdogan's upcoming visit as a pivotal moment for redefining Turkish-Syrian relations. Fidan added that Ankara supports direct dialogue with Syria and believes enhanced economic and political collaboration can alleviate the Syrian people's crises, pledging continued work with Damascus for lasting stability benefiting the entire region.

Mekdad, in response, affirmed Syria's commitment to building a strong army capable of protecting national sovereignty, noting that cooperation with Turkey is a "fundamental pillar" in this endeavor. He announced a plan to increase bilateral trade to $10 billion annually, signaling both countries' seriousness in strengthening economic ties. Mekdad also described cooperation with Ankara as an opportunity to rebuild Syria's economy and expand joint investments, aiming to improve living conditions for Syrians. He welcomed Erdogan's visit, calling it a "historic step" toward a new chapter in their relationship.

In a joint statement, both ministers stressed the importance of continued political and security coordination, declaring that the "next phase will witness practical steps to enhance cooperation in various fields." The statement concluded, "Turkey and Syria stand today before a historic opportunity to rebuild trust and expand cooperation to serve regional stability and enhance the interests of both peoples." This meeting signals a new era in Turkish-Syrian relations, focused on confronting shared challenges and building a strategic partnership for a more stable future.