Hakan Fidan signals 'we are ready to meet with Assad': What is Turkey's foreign policy direction?

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, made statements regarding the escalating tension between Israel and Lebanon and the possibility of the war spreading in the Middle East. Responding to journalists' questions, the Minister mentioned that Turkey could establish a 'Cybersecurity Agency' and also gave messages regarding the future of relations between Syria and Turkey.

Stating that 'the establishment of an independent cybersecurity agency for Turkey has come onto the government's agenda,' the Foreign Minister, 'Our President has expressed a will that this must now happen' he stated.

Answering questions from AA correspondents, Fidan emphasized that the topic of cybersecurity is important for Turkey.

On the other hand, Fidan stated that if far-right governments were to come to power in European countries, it would not make a significant difference for Turkey, noting, 'European countries have already been acting as if they were governed by the far-right in their relations with Turkey. Therefore, it would not change anything for us if the far-right came to power' he said.

Evaluating the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Fidan "The Cold War that began between the West and Russia, along with the alliances Russia has formed within its sphere of influence, will continue to deepen and evolve into another dimension" he observed.

WHAT DO ISRAEL'S ATTACKS ON LEBANON MEAN? 

Touching upon the 'cyberattacks' carried out by Israel in Lebanon, Fidan pointed out that tensions are being escalated.

Fidan stated, 'We see that Israel has begun to escalate its attacks toward Lebanon step by step' he remarked.

The Foreign Minister further added, 'Currently, the fanatic mindset (in Israel) is implementing a policy designed for destruction, far removed from common sense' he said.

WILL THERE BE NORMALIZATION BETWEEN SYRIA AND TURKEY?

Fidan also made significant statements regarding the long-standing crisis between Turkey and Syria.

Stating that a diplomatic solution must be produced between the countries, Fidan said the following: 

'I believe that if there is a solution in the style that Turkey desires, Syria will be able to resolve other issues more easily... We are ready to meet with Assad.' 

TURKEY'S BRICS ACCESSION PROCESS

Speaking about Turkey's BRICS accession process, the Foreign Minister drew attention to the problems experienced with the EU.

Foreign Minister Fidan stated the following: '(BRICS membership) If our economic integration with the EU had been crowned with membership, perhaps we would not be in search of such alternatives on many issues.'