Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday described Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s visit to Ankara as a “historic” step toward the beginning of a period of “lasting friendship and cooperation” between the two countries.
Speaking at a joint press conference with al-Sharaa, Erdogan emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity and unity.
He reiterated Türkiye’s unwavering support for Syria, saying: “We never abandoned our Syrian sisters and brothers in their hardest times, and we will continue to support them in this new period.”
“Being of historic importance, I see this visit today as the start of a new era of eternal friendship and cooperation. All of our institutions have been working tirelessly to rebuild our relationship to a strategic level,” said Erdogan.
He expressed confidence in Syria’s ability to rebuild itself and said: “We have no doubt that our Syrian sisters and brothers, who inspire the region with their resilience, will rebuild their country.”
Türkiye is ready to assist in reconstructing devastated Syrian cities, Erdogan said, adding that he believes accelerating economic recovery will encourage the voluntary return of Syrian refugees.
Strengthening bilateral ties
The two leaders discussed joint steps to establish security and economic stability.
Erdogan highlighted progress in multidimensional relations, including trade, civil aviation, energy, health, and education.
“Besides humanitarian aid to Syria’s devastated landscape, we are also ready to support the rebuilding of critical infrastructure. As Syria’s economic recovery gains momentum, so will the voluntary returns gain traction. On the other hand, a series of international sanctions against Syria present an obstacle to the economic and infrastructural recovery efforts. Türkiye’s efforts to lift these sanctions that were intended to target the Assad regime have provided flexibility. However, we will continue to pursue lifting these sanctions until the job is complete,” Erdogan said.
He also called for financial and moral support from the Arab and Islamic world for Syria’s new administration and people, describing it as “crucial.”
Combating Terrorism
Erdogan pledged Türkiye’s support in Syria’s fight against terror groups, including Daesh (ISIS) and the PKK.
“Be it Daesh or PKK, I have reiterated our support to Syria in combating terrorism in camps located in northeastern Syria to him (Al-Sharaa). I would like to express my satisfaction on my brother Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s strong will in combating terrorism,” said Erdogan.
“By acting in solidarity with Syria, I believe we will fully establish a climate of peace and security in our shared region, free from terrorism,” he said.
Al-Sharaa, who led anti-regime groups to remove the Bashar al-Assad regime in Syria, was declared president last week.
Assad, Syria’s leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on Dec. 8, 2024, ending the Baath Party’s regime, which had been in power since 1963.
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