Message from Bashar al-Assad to Turkey

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad met with Alexander Lavrentiev, Special Envoy of Russian President Vladimir Putin, in the capital, Damascus. According to a statement from the Presidency, Syria-Turkey relations were also addressed during the meeting.

Assad stated that the foundation for any effort to improve Syria-Turkey relations is "respect for Syria's sovereignty."

Assad used the expression, "We are open to any initiative regarding Syria-Turkey relations, as long as the Syrian state's sovereignty over all its territory is respected and it is based on the principle of combating all forms of terrorism."

"CONDITIONS ARE CURRENTLY MORE FAVORABLE THAN EVER FOR THE SUCCESS OF MEDIATION"

Lavrentiev, for his part, reiterated Russia's support for all initiatives aimed at normalizing relations between Syria and Turkey.

Stating that conditions currently appear more favorable than ever for the success of mediation efforts, Lavrentiev emphasized that Russia is ready to work to advance the negotiations.

Lavrentiev said, "The main goal is to normalize relations between the two countries."

News Source: İHA