Turkish Parliament speaker calls for lifting of international sanctions on Syria
A view of the bundles of cash as people exchange dollars, euros and Turkish liras at Al-Hamidiyeh Souq in the capital Damascus, Syria on December 23, 2024 (AA Photo)
Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus has called for an end to international sanctions on Syria, emphasizing the need for global support to help the country rebuild.
Speaking at an iftar (fast-breaking dinner) with ambassadors at Parliament’s Ceremony Hall, Kurtulmus stated, “What Syria expects from the international community is the immediate lifting of the imposed sanctions.”
Importance of international support for Syria
Kurtulmus stressed that Syria requires external assistance to recover from years of conflict, including efforts to restore state institutions and rebuild infrastructure damaged during the war.
“We hope that the new Syrian administration will establish an inclusive governance model, allowing Syria to rise again,” he said.
According to Kurtulmus, lifting sanctions would enable Syria to reintegrate into the international community as a sovereign and independent state after enduring a 61-year Baathist rule and a 13-year-long civil war.
Diplomatic approach to global crises
Addressing global challenges, Kurtulmus highlighted the necessity of diplomacy in resolving conflicts.
He pointed to Türkiye’s consistent stance on keeping diplomatic channels open, particularly regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
“Türkiye has always advocated for keeping the negotiation table open under all circumstances,” he noted, expressing hope for a fair and lasting peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine.
Call for just and stable world order
During his speech, Kurtulmus also discussed the broader implications of global instability, including climate change, migration crises and armed conflicts.
He underscored the importance of proactive crisis prevention rather than reactive crisis management, arguing that addressing the root causes of global problems is essential for long-term stability.
He further stated that fostering dialogue and reducing differences is crucial for creating a fairer global system. “We must refine our perspectives on humanitarian approaches to common problems and strive for a world that is more just,” he said.
Condemnation of Israeli actions in Gaza
Kurtulmus strongly criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as violations of international law. “The idea of constructing new summer resorts in Gaza is not only unimaginable but also incompatible with international law and global conscience,” he asserted.
He condemned the policies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration, labeling them as forced displacement and systematic oppression.
“The Palestinian issue has become a litmus test for global conscience,” he said, adding that recent developments have also revealed global double standards in addressing human rights violations.
He called for a new international order based on equality among states and fairness in governance.
A multipolar future for global governance
Kurtulmus predicted a shift toward a multipolar world, stating that no single country or region would be able to dominate global affairs in the future.
He emphasized that the coming era would be defined by multiple power centers, leading to a more balanced and equitable global order.
“In this new period, the voices of those advocating for justice and peace will be heard louder. Our responsibility is to work towards solutions that benefit all of humanity, fostering international solidarity and unity,” he concluded.
