A new era in Turkey-Syria relations: Mutual cooperation message from Fidan and Shaibani

Following the closed-door meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Hakan Fidan and Assad Hasan Shaibani appeared before the cameras. During the joint press conference, attention was drawn to the ongoing dialogue and cooperation efforts between the two countries.

Minister Fidan underlined that despite the conflicts that have been ongoing in Syria since 2011, the dialogue on the Ankara-Damascus line has continued uninterrupted. Emphasizing that the peace and stability of the Turkish and Syrian societies cannot be considered separately, Fidan stated that the communication mechanisms established with regional countries continue to function. He underscored their common interests with the statement, "It is not possible for us to view the prosperity and stability of Turkey and Syria as separate from one another."

Touching upon the fact that the stable environment in Damascus and Hama is also felt in Turkey's southern provinces, Fidan pointed to the importance of integration efforts between Syrians and Turks.

It was also announced during the meeting that new steps have been taken in regional infrastructure projects. Minister Fidan expressed that the highway connection planned between Turkey, Jordan, and Syria has strategic importance in terms of regional trade and transportation. He shared that the administrative processes for the opening of a Turkish school in Damascus have been completed and that significant progress has been made toward establishing a joint university between the two countries. Projects carried out to increase the access of Syrian citizens to healthcare services were also brought to the agenda.

GAZA POLICY AND THE BIG PICTURE

The ongoing conflicts in Palestine and Gaza were also covered comprehensively during the meeting. Fidan pointed out that a consensus has been reached for the second phase of the peace plan announced by US President Donald Trump. However, emphasizing that Israel continues its attacks, he said, "We see once again that Netanyahu does not want peace."

Fidan indicated that one of the goals of the Netanyahu government is to remove Palestinians from Gaza, stating that this policy will not succeed. Noting that "Gazans will remain in Gaza, and that Palestinians who claim their homeland and the international community are beginning to better understand the realities," Fidan underscored the need for a permanent ceasefire in the region, the continuation of the peace plan, and the initiation of reconstruction.

Pointing out that Netanyahu has also increased his attacks in the West Bank and Jerusalem, Fidan gave the message that a solution for sustainable peace in the region cannot be delayed.

As a result of the meeting, while determination was emphasized toward developing relations between the two countries, the importance of cooperation for regional peace and stability was highlighted. Both ministers stated that projects and contacts will continue without slowing down in the coming period.

News Source: 12punto