Will there be 'normalization' between Syria and Turkey? Russia says 'talks are positive'
Lavrov announced that representatives from Turkey and Syria have proposed dialogue to normalize relations. In his statement at a press conference, he noted that this process would also cover important issues such as the 'Kurdish question'.
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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that, following his recent meetings with his Turkish counterpart and the new Foreign Minister of Syria, both sides have developed positive ideas for the normalization process. In this context, the importance of discussing issues such as counter-terrorism and border security, as well as the Kurdish question, was emphasized.
One of the key points in Lavrov's statement was his meeting with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Regarding what was discussed during the meeting, Lavrov said:
'I recently met with my Turkish counterpart here and we discussed this issue. I also discussed this with the newly appointed Foreign Minister of the Syrian Arab Republic. In my opinion, both sides have put forward ideas that could enable the normalization process to restart. And, of course, the Kurdish question, along with counter-terrorism and border security, will be at the center of these discussions.'
Speaking about the efforts and meetings held for the 'normalization process' between Turkey and Syria, Lavrov said, 'The military and foreign ministers came together in the Russia-Iran-Turkey-Syria format. The talks were positive.'
WHAT IS RUSSIA'S APPROACH TO THE PKK?
Another topic highlighted by the Russian Foreign Minister was the activities of the PKK in the region.
Emphasizing that the YPG/PKK terrorist organization must establish a dialogue with Damascus, Lavrov pointed out that these groups have no choice but to remain a part of Syria. He stated that Kurdish organizations must reject terrorism and seek reconciliation.
Lavrov made the following remarks on the subject:
'I believe that Kurdish organizations (YPG/PKK) must strongly reject terrorism and finally understand that they have no choice but to remain a part of the Syrian republic. They need to reach an agreement with Damascus.'
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
RUSSIA'S MILITARY PRESENCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST WILL CONTINUE
Stating that Russia is making efforts to ensure stability in the Middle East, Lavrov conveyed that their military presence in Syria continues to ensure security.
Lavrov also stated that he believes some countries are engaging in activities to provoke Iran and endanger peace in the region, adding:
'As for how we can prevent the conflict from spilling over into other countries, we can do this and we will continue to do so. We have a military force that helps ensure security in the Syrian Arab Republic, and it will continue to carry out its duties. However, I still feel that some players want to provoke Iran, incite the US, and start a major, all-out war across the entire region.'
Russia has 'critically important' military bases in Syria. The most important of these is the Latakia Military Base, which is used as a naval base.