Turkiye’s FM Engages with Syria’s New Leadership, Advocates for Sanctions Relief
Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to discuss support for Syria’s political transition and rebuilding efforts. Emphasizing unity, they called for the lifting of international sanctions, which they argue hinder recovery. The discussions also included the drafting of a new constitution and the representation of minorities. In addition, Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt visited, advocating for improved Lebanon-Syria relations following al-Assad’s removal.
The Foreign Minister of Turkiye, Hakan Fidan, has engaged with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Damascus, following a visit endorsed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This meeting aimed to facilitate political transition and reconstruction efforts in Syria post-Bashar al-Assad regime. Fidan emphasized the significance of political unity and stability, advocating for the lifting of international sanctions against Syria to assist the nation’s recovery.
During a joint press conference, Fidan expressed his commitment to supporting Syria as it moves towards a brighter future. He referred to the necessity of quick action in lifting sanctions, stating, “the international community needs to mobilize to help Syria get back on its feet and for the displaced people to return.” Al-Sharaa echoed these sentiments, calling for an immediate cessation of all economic sanctions.
The talks included discussions on establishing a new Syrian constitution that safeguards minorities, as well as addressing the issue of Syrian refugees and foreign interventions, particularly concerning Israel and the Kurdish composition in Syria. Fidan’s visit also coincided with ongoing conflicts in northeastern Syria, emphasizing Turkiye’s historical support for opposition forces in the region.
In addition to the diplomatic meeting, al-Sharaa received Walid Jumblatt, the Lebanese Druze leader, marking the first visit by a Lebanese official to engage with Syria’s new leadership. Jumblatt praised the Syrian populace for their recent upheaval against oppression and expressed hopes for a restoration of positive relations between Lebanon and Syria.
Al-Sharaa, whose leadership comes after the removal of al-Assad, assured that the new governance would be inclusive of all religious and ethnic sects in Syria. The commitment to safeguarding the representation of minorities was a focal point of the discussions, with assurances made to promote unity among Syria’s diverse communities.
The recent political upheaval in Syria brought forth the appointment of a new administration following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. This shift aims to stabilize the nation after a decade of civil conflict that significantly affected its demographic and political landscape. International responses, especially sanctions imposed on Syria, are now a focal point for discussions to facilitate rehabilitation and rebuilding efforts in the country. The involvement of Turkiye, a long-time supporter of the Syrian opposition, is pivotal to the ongoing transition.
The ongoing dialogue between Turkiye and Syria’s new administration signifies a crucial step towards political stability and economic recovery in a country devastated by prolonged conflict. The call for lifting international sanctions and the commitment to drafting a constitution that includes minority protections reflects an effort to build a more inclusive future for Syria. The collaboration emphasizes the importance of regional support in addressing the challenges facing Syria and its peoples.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
