A high-level Syrian delegation, including foreign and defense ministers, will make its first official visit to Türkiye on January 15, marking a significant moment following the collapse of Syria’s Baath regime in December.
Interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani, along with interim Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and intelligence chief Anas Khattab, will be received by Turkish officials, including Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, and National Intelligence Organization (MİT) chief İbrahim Kalın in Ankara.
“This visit will represent the new Syria,” al-Shibani stated on January 14, emphasizing Türkiye’s unwavering support for the Syrian people over the past 14 years.
Türkiye has long been a key supporter of the Syrian opposition forces during the civil war, which has led to the loss of nearly one million lives.
The country has also hosted more than 3 million Syrian refugees.
In this context, talks in Ankara are expected to focus on strengthening Turkish-Syrian relations, particularly in areas of military, economic cooperation, and intelligence sharing as Türkiye aids in Syria’s reconstruction.
Additionally, Türkiye has advocated for the lifting of sanctions on Syria, calling for international cooperation in the reconstruction process.
This call is gaining traction, as recent diplomatic meetings suggest that sanctions may soon be lifted.
Security issues, particularly the presence of YPG and ISIL, are also expected to be central to the discussions, with both Türkiye and the new Syrian administration stressing that there is “no place for terrorism” in Syria.
The visit marks a crucial step towards rebuilding ties between the two nations and forging a path forward for Syria’s stability and reconstruction after years of conflict.
