Hakan Fidan's statement on Syrians: We will not send anyone back unless they are willing

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a joint press conference in Istanbul with Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan. During the meeting, Fidan made statements regarding the agenda in addition to the discussions.

Highlights from Fidan's statements are as follows:

ISRAELI ATTACKS

Israel is trying to spread the war.

The Netanyahu government has no intention regarding a ceasefire and peace. As Turkey, we are making every effort to support peace to the end.

It is important to stop the ongoing humanitarian tragedy in Gaza as soon as possible. It is also important to stop the strategic festering wound that has been continuing in our region for many years.

ERDOĞAN'S INVITATION TO ASSAD

Regarding Syria, our President has used his leadership vision to make a call for peace at the highest level. This is an extremely valuable call. I hope they understand its value.

How the Syrian opposition will establish a relationship with the regime is their own decision. These brothers of ours prevent more immigrants from coming to our country in the region where they are located. We will not leave them in the lurch. They are taking extraordinary steps for the security of our country. We have fought shoulder to shoulder against terrorism.

"WE WILL NOT SEND ANYONE BACK UNLESS THEY ARE WILLING"

Regarding the Syrian refugees living in Turkey, Fidan said the following:

"Our government policy regarding refugees has not changed. We are not in a position to force anyone to leave here unless they are willing."