Ankara, December 9, 2024 – The Europe Today: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has announced that Syria has entered “a new era,” calling for international support and inclusive governance to shape the country’s future. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 15th Conference of Ambassadors in Ankara on Monday, Fidan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to the Syrian people and outlined steps for achieving peace and stability in the region.
“We expect international actors, especially the UN, to extend a helping hand to the Syrian people and support the establishment of an inclusive administration,” Fidan said. He reiterated that national reconciliation remains the cornerstone for a permanent resolution in Syria, emphasizing that Türkiye has consistently advocated for this approach over the past 13 years.
The comments came in the wake of dramatic developments in Syria, where opposition forces launched a successful 10-day offensive, capturing key cities and ultimately seizing the capital, Damascus, on Sunday. The swift collapse of the Assad regime has led to the flight of President Bashar al-Assad and his family to Moscow, where Russia has granted them asylum.
Fidan expressed hope for Syria’s future, stating, “In the upcoming process, we desire a Syria where different ethnic and religious groups live in peace under an inclusive understanding of governance. We want to see a new Syria that will have good relations with its neighbors and contribute to regional peace and stability.”
He also highlighted the importance of preventing terrorist groups such as Daesh and the PKK from exploiting the current situation. “Preventing Syria from being a safe haven for terrorism is essential. We will resolutely continue all our efforts for this,” he underscored.
Fidan commended Türkiye’s long-standing support for the Syrian people, emphasizing the country’s role as a steadfast ally during the conflict. “While others abandoned the Syrians, Türkiye stood by them, shouldering every difficulty to realize justice, regional peace, and stability,” he said.
As Syria turns the page on 13 years of conflict, Fidan expressed optimism that the Syrian people will seize this “golden opportunity” for rebuilding their nation. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s readiness to assist in the transition, stating: “Türkiye, which extended a helping hand to its Syrian brothers and sisters during their difficult times, will be with them on the new page opened in Damascus.”
Fidan concluded by noting that the Syrian crisis exemplifies the challenges of long-term diplomacy, emphasizing Türkiye’s commitment to both national security and regional prosperity through diplomatic initiatives.
