Russia, Iran, Türkiye and Syria set to meet on Ankara-Damascus normalization

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced that Russia, Iran, Türkiye and Syria are planning to hold a high-level meeting soon to discuss the normalization of relations between Ankara and Damascus.

This meeting is expected to build on earlier discussions aimed at easing tensions between Türkiye and Syria.

Syria demands Turkish withdrawal, but not precondition for talks

Lavrov pointed out that while the previous talks were productive, the parties could not agree on the next steps. “The Syrian government believes that a clear procedure for the final withdrawal of Turkish forces from Syria is necessary for the process to continue,” he stated.

Lavrov also mentioned that Türkiye is open to this idea but noted that “specific conditions have yet to be agreed upon.”

According to Lavrov, “these conditions include the return of refugees and the implementation of measures to suppress terrorist threats, which would make the presence of Turkish troops unnecessary. “

“All of these issues are currently under discussion,” he added.

Assad gave green signal to talks

Speaking at the opening session of Syria’s Parliament on Aug. 25, Syrian regime leader Bashar Assad suggested that Türkiye and Syria should sign an agreement to safeguard their sovereignty and establish a framework for future negotiations.

“It’s not correct what was announced by some Turkish officials recently, that Syria said if there is no troop withdrawal, it will not meet with the Turks,” he added.

“While normalization of relations requires the withdrawal of Turkish forces from Syrian soil and an end to support for terrorist groups, these are not preconditions for starting talks,” Assad also said in the opening session.

Defense Minister Guler outlines conditions for withdrawal

Defense Minister Yasar Guler recently mentioned that ministerial-level talks with Syria could occur if specific conditions are met.

He emphasized that discussions regarding Türkiye’s withdrawal from Syria would only take place after the adoption of a new Syrian constitution, the holding of elections, and the securing of borders.

On July 26, Guler reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to establishing a security corridor along its borders with Iraq and Syria, stating that current talks with the Syrian regime are conducted within the Astana framework, involving Iran, Türkiye, Syria and Russia.