Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said that Ankara will play a key role in facilitating the transition process for the Syrian people, during a meeting in Riyadh with the participation of the foreign ministers of 12 Middle Eastern countries. He stressed that it is the countries of the region that bear the main responsibility for the stabilization and reconstruction of Syria, which must be based on the principles of territorial integrity, unity and sovereignty, BTA reports.
Fidan pointed out the need to establish a coordination mechanism or committees to increase the effectiveness of aid to Syria. According to him, exemptions from sanctions and the proper prioritization of sectors such as energy and humanitarian aid will facilitate reconstruction efforts.
Attitude towards the SDF and the issue of Kurdish forces
Hakan Fidan called on the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to disband their structures if they want to successfully integrate with the central government. The SDF, led by the People's Protection Forces (PKK), is seen by Ankara as an offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) – designated a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US and the EU.
The minister highlighted the threat that the SDF and its affiliated groups pose to Arab communities in the East Euphrates and accused the organization of abusing the natural resources that the Syrian people need most.
Turkey and the Efforts Against Terrorist Threats
Fidan stressed Turkey's readiness to assist Syria in the fight against terrorist groups such as Daesh. According to him, coordinated efforts can significantly strengthen the Syrian government's ability to deal with extremism and help rebuild the country.
“Turkey is ready to do whatever is necessary to ease the difficult path of the Syrian people,“ Fidan summarized in his speech, thereby underlining Ankara's commitment to solving Syria's complex geopolitical and humanitarian problem.