Normalization response from Assad's side: Relations between Syria and Turkey must return to the pre-2011 status

The Syrian Foreign Ministry stated, "We express our thanks and appreciation to the friendly and brotherly countries that have shown sincere efforts to improve Syrian-Turkish relations, and we emphasize that the return of relations between the two countries to their natural state requires a return to the situation that existed before 2011."

In the statement made by the Syrian Foreign Ministry, it was said, "The Syrian Arab Republic, in light of the successive statements regarding the relations between Syria and Turkey, reminds that it has always been meticulous in making a clear distinction between peoples and the policies and practices of governments that harm Syria. Facts and events have proven this."

The statement included the following expressions:

"Syria firmly believes that relations between states should not be built on conflict or hostility, but on healthy, mutual interests. In this context, Syria has approached various initiatives by other states to improve relations positively.

Likewise, it has approached initiatives to improve Syrian-Turkish relations positively and advocates that the result of these initiatives should not be for media purposes, but a process built on concrete facts and the principles that define relations between states.

The basis of these principles must be respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of states, combating everything that threatens their security and stability, and serving the common interests of the two countries and their peoples.

In this context, any initiative must be based on clear foundations to ensure that relations return to normal. At the forefront of these foundations are the withdrawal of forces illegally present on Syrian territory and the fight against terrorist groups that threaten the security of not only Syria but also Turkey.

The Syrian Arab Republic expresses its thanks and appreciation to the friendly and brotherly countries that have shown sincere efforts to improve Syrian-Turkish relations and emphasizes that the return of relations between the two countries to their natural state requires a return to the situation that existed before 2011. This is a fundamental element for the security, peace, and stability of both countries."