President Erdogan says he is still ‘hopeful’ for rapprochement with Assad

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed optimism about normalizing Türkiye-Syria relations during an interview with journalist on his way back to Türkiye following his participation in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Arab League emergency summit, where he was seen standing next to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in a group photo.

Türkiye extends hand for normalization with Syria

Erdogan noted that he did not have the opportunity to listen to Assad’s remarks at the summit due to a separate meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Despite this, Erdogan remains hopeful for a positive shift in Türkiye-Syria ties.

“I still have hope for Assad. We need to come together and put Türkiye-Syria relations back on track,” Erdogan said.

He highlighted the necessity of addressing terrorist groups operating along the Türkiye-Syria border, including PKK/PYD/YPG, as essential for long-term stability.

Türkiye emphasizes Syria’s territorial integrity

The Turkish president stressed that Türkiye respects Syria‘s territorial integrity and does not pose a threat to it. Instead, he pointed to terrorist organizations as the primary threat, undermining Syria’s sovereignty and causing regional instability.

Erdogan added, “We are not the ones threatening Syria’s territorial integrity. It is the terrorists, primarily PKK/PYD/YPG, who are the real threat.”

Erdogan also underscored the ongoing Israeli threat in the region, warning that the instability could quickly escalate if not managed properly. “The fire burning in unstable regions should not be underestimated,” he cautioned.

Path to lasting peace in the region

Erdogan reiterated his commitment to reviving Türkiye-Syria relations, stating that renewed cooperation could pave the way for lasting peace.

“In my opinion, all the developments in Syria will ultimately bring relief to the country. However, our efforts to restore relations with Bashar al-Assad will likely bring even greater relief to the region,” he remarked.