Former Turkish PM discusses Syria, Kurds and path to national reconciliation

Former Prime Minister and Future Party Chairman Ahmet Davutoglu responded to various key issues, including Türkiye’s policy toward Syria, the Kurdish population, and his party’s stance on national reconciliation. Davutoglu also addressed the possibility of visiting Damascus.

Why it matters

Davutoglu’s remarks highlighted a nuanced approach to Türkiye’s role in Syria and its relationship with Kurdish communities. His statements reflect an effort to balance Türkiye’s security concerns with regional diplomacy while signaling potential shifts in Türkiye’s domestic and foreign policy dynamics.

Details

• On Kurds in Syria: Davutoglu stressed that Kurds are not a threat to Türkiye. He advocated for breaking the perception that all Syrian Kurds are under terrorist group PKK or PYD control, proposing a national reconciliation council to include representatives from diverse regions like Haseke, Aleppo and Afrin.

Davutoglu warned against the formation of irregular militia forces near Türkiye’s borders, emphasizing the need to prevent another “Kandil-like” situation. He supported a unitary Syrian state but indicated Türkiye could accept an autonomous federative structure if agreed upon by Syrians.

• On US involvement: He called for clear communication with the United States, stating that local militias must either integrate into Syria’s national army or serve as local police, structured to ensure no threat to Türkiye.

Zoom in

When asked about visiting the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, Davutoglu suggested that a visit would be more appropriate as part of an official high-level delegation led by the President of Türkiye. He expressed his hope for peace and stability in Syria and indicated his willingness to visit Damascus when the conditions are right.

Zoom out

Davutoglu also addressed speculation about a potential alliance with the AK Party. He maintained that his party’s focus is on presenting a credible alternative to Türkiye’s conservative electorate.

He summarized his stance as: “If you do right, we support you; if you do wrong, we oppose you.”