Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Advocates for Support and Sanction Lifting in Meeting with Syria’s New Leadership

Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to discuss support for the nation’s political transition and rebuilding after the fall of the al-Assad regime. Both officials called for the lifting of international sanctions to aid Syria’s recovery, emphasizing the protection of minorities and drafting a new constitution.

Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s new leader, to discuss support for Syria’s political transition and reconstruction after the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime. This meeting, held in Damascus, marks a significant moment two days after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced Fidan’s visit to engage with Syria’s new governance structure.

During the conference, both officials emphasized the necessity of lifting international sanctions on Syria. Minister Fidan expressed hope that the darkest days for the country were behind it, stating, “Turkiye will continue to stand by your side…better days await us.” He urged the international community to facilitate support for Syria’s recovery and the repatriation of displaced individuals.

Al-Sharaa, who assumed power after the recent overthrow of al-Assad, echoed calls for lifting sanctions. He argued that these punitive measures should end now that the oppressive regime is gone, stating, “All the economic sanctions must be lifted, now the predator has gone and only the victims remain.” He highlighted the need for a swift resolution to allow Syria to move forward.

Furthermore, the discussions included drafting a new constitution that protects minorities, addressing Syrian refugees’ concerns, and addressing the implications of Israeli actions on Syrian sovereignty. The backdrop of ongoing conflict, particularly between Turkish-backed forces and the Kurdish YPG, underscores the complexities of these negotiations.

In conjunction with Fidan’s mission, al-Sharaa welcomed Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, underscoring the importance of minority protection under the new Syrian administration. Jumblatt, a historical critic of past Syrian influence in Lebanon, remarked on the need for new relations following al-Assad’s departure, celebrating the achievements of the Syrian people.

Al-Sharaa assured Jumblatt of representation and regard for ethnic and religious diversities in the country, stating that Syria would no longer serve as a site of negative interference in Lebanon. The intention is to foster an environment where all communities feel secure and valued in the new governance structure.

This article discusses the recent meeting between Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, following significant political changes in Syria after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. The meeting highlights the ongoing issues of international sanctions against Syria and the necessity of support for political transition and reconstruction in the war-torn nation. The dynamics of Syrian governance post-conflict, particularly regarding the protection of minorities and the complex regional interactions with Turkey and Lebanon, provide crucial context for understanding the implications of their discussions.

The meeting between Hakan Fidan and Ahmed al-Sharaa signifies a pivotal development in Syria’s path towards recovery and political stabilization post-Assad. Both leaders advocate for lifting sanctions to support the nation’s reconstruction efforts and stress the importance of minority representation in the new government. As Turkiye positions itself as a key player in Syria’s new political landscape, the future of regional relations remains closely intertwined with these developments.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com