Turkey’s Foreign Minister Engages with Syria’s New Leader to Discuss Rebuilding and Sanctions

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to discuss reconstruction and political transition in Syria after the fall of Assad. Both sides called for the lifting of international sanctions and emphasized the need for unity and representation of minorities within a new Syrian constitution. Fidan’s visit reflects Turkey’s role in supporting Syria during this critical phase, following over a decade of conflict.

On a recent visit to Damascus, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Syria’s newly appointed leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, discussing the urgent need for national unity and stability in Syria following the Assad regime’s decline. Highlighting Turkey’s commitment to assisting in Syria’s political transition and reconstruction, Fidan emphasized the importance of lifting international sanctions that have burdened the nation, urging a mobilization of global support to help displaced Syrians return home.

During their meeting, Fidan voiced optimism for Syria’s future, indicating that the darkest days are behind them. Al-Sharaa, representing the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, echoed the call for the removal of sanctions, arguing that with the previous oppressive regime gone, now is the ideal time for the international community to reconsider its stance, especially as many sanctions date back decades.

The talks also included proposals for a new Syrian constitution that safeguards minority groups, as well as discussions on the return of Syrian refugees and issues concerning foreign violations of sovereignty. The meeting coincided with continued conflicts in northeastern Syria amid Turkey’s longstanding opposition to the Kurdish YPG group, viewed as a terrorist outfit by Ankara.

Fidan’s engagement in Syria illustrates Turkey’s pivot in supporting the newly formed administration and emphasizes the significance of maintaining governmental structures. Additionally, Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt visited Syria, marking an important intersection in Lebanese-Syrian relations post-Assad. He praised the Syrian people’s efforts to overthrow tyranny and expressed expectations for renewed diplomatic ties.

Al-Sharaa’s commitment to ensuring the representation of various religious and ethnic minorities in his new government remains a concern for many observers. There are pressing questions regarding the inclusivity and tolerance of the new administration towards its diverse populations. As Syria looks towards rebuilding, the support of the international community will be crucial.

The recent meeting between Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa is significant in the context of Syria’s evolving political landscape following years of civil conflict. After the fall of the Assad regime, the focus is now on rebuilding efforts and establishing a more inclusive government that addresses the needs of all minority groups within the country. This diplomatic engagement highlights Turkey’s role as a key player in the region and its commitment to facilitating a smoother transition for Syria during a time of necessity and international scrutiny.

The meeting between Turkey’s Hakan Fidan and Syria’s Ahmed al-Sharaa underscores a pivotal moment in Syria’s political transition, with calls for the lifting of sanctions and a focus on national unity. The collaboration aims to foster stability in a war-torn nation, addressing the urgent issues of reconstruction and the rights of minority groups. This engagement could herald a new era of relations between Turkey and Syria, pivotal in shaping the country’s future landscape amidst ongoing challenges.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com