Türkiye hosts panel on security policies, counterterrorism in Ankara

The second session of the panel titled “Türkiye’s Stabilizing Role in Syria’s Security” was held in Ankara, focusing on “Türkiye’s Security Policies and Counterterrorism.”

Organized by the Presidency’s Directorate of Communications, the session featured leading security and foreign policy experts.

Key discussions on Türkiye’s security policies

Moderated by ORSAM Levant Studies Coordinator Dr. Oytun Orhan, the session included notable speakers such as Associate Dr. Cagri Erhan of Altınbas University, Assoc. Dr. Nursin Atesoglu Guney from the National Intelligence Academy, Professor Dr. Cinar Ozen from Ankara University, Associate Dr. Muhittin Ataman from the Social Sciences University of Ankara, and Dr. Abdullah Erboga from the National Defense University.

Assoc. Dr. Erhan emphasized Türkiye’s strategic approach to Syria, stating, “For Türkiye, Syria is not just Syria—it is a key element in its broader Middle East policies.”

He outlined four main security concerns: border security, humanitarian security, reconstruction efforts, and counterterrorism.

Türkiye’s regional influence, counterterrorism strategies

Assoc. Dr. Guney highlighted Türkiye’s strategic patience and its increasing influence in the region, particularly as Iran and Russia’s impact in Syria diminishes.

She pointed out the ongoing threat posed by the PKK/YPG in eastern Syria and the importance of resolving the presence of U.S. military forces in the region.

Assoc. Dr. Ozen noted that, while Türkiye’s actions in Syria have yielded positive results, regional geopolitical risks remain significant.

“We are entering a period where global powers might attempt to shift the current balance in the region to their advantage,” he said.

Assoc. Dr. Ataman described Türkiye’s shift in counterterrorism policy, emphasizing its transition to proactive cross-border operations.

“If Türkiye aims for absolute superiority in counterterrorism at the regional level, it must also enhance Iraq and Syria’s state capacities,” he added.

Dr. Erboga stressed that Türkiye’s fundamental security challenge remains the presence of the PKK in Syria.

“Türkiye and Syria’s stability is now interdependent—instability in one will inevitably affect the other,” he stated.

He also noted that Türkiye and Syria’s futures are increasingly intertwined, with developments in one country having a direct impact on the other.

Statements from the Presidency’s Directorate of Communications

Presidency’s Director of Communications Fahrettin Altun also addressed the panel, underscoring Türkiye’s role in regional stability.

“History has proven Türkiye’s rightful stance on Syria in the entire world. Over the past 13 years, the suffering in Syria has revealed both the powerlessness and opportunism of global actors,” Altun said.

He emphasized Türkiye’s determination to eliminate terrorist organizations in both Syria and the broader region, stating, “Our determination in fighting terrorist organizations will continue until their presence is completely eradicated.”

“Anyone who wants to see Türkiye’s resolve should look at our successful operations, including Operation Euphrates Shield, Operation Olive Branch, Operation Peace Spring, and Operation Spring Shield.”

Altun also noted the significance of recent diplomatic developments, highlighting the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Türkiye. “His meeting with President Erdogan was another demonstration of the trust placed in Türkiye’s role in ensuring peace,” he added.

He further pointed out that Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts have consistently aimed at peace and stability, referencing its mediation roles in Libya and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

“In the face of crises, Türkiye has remained a proactive actor, whether in Libya, Ukraine, or the Black Sea grain deal,” Altun noted.

Altun also commented on Türkiye’s humanitarian contributions, particularly in assisting displaced Syrians and supporting reconstruction efforts in Syria.

“The hospitals, schools, and infrastructure projects Türkiye has built in Syria stand as lasting testaments to our commitment to human dignity and stability,” he said.