FM Fidan highlights commitment to regional stability in Syria

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan underscored Türkiye’s role as a guardian for all communities in Syria, regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds, in remarks delivered during a joint press conference with Belgian Foreign Minister Bernard Quintin on Thursday.

“Whether they are Alawites, Yazidis, Christians, or others, Türkiye is the protector of all who feel threatened or anxious in Syria,” Fidan stated. He emphasized Türkiye’s long-standing principle of focusing on the nature of an event rather than its actors, signaling the country’s impartial stance in addressing injustices.

Fidan’s comments came against the backdrop of Türkiye’s ongoing engagement in addressing the aftermath of the Syrian conflict. Millions, including Turks, were displaced due to the Assad regime’s violence, with Türkiye taking in those seeking refuge. “Türkiye has never hesitated to embrace those fleeing oppression,” he said.

The minister highlighted Türkiye’s efforts to create a peaceful environment for Syrians, stressing its commitment to preventing harm to vulnerable groups in the region. “President Erdogan is extremely sensitive about this issue,” Fidan noted. “Whoever is subjected to persecution will find Türkiye standing in solidarity with them.”

Strong ties with Belgium and the EU

During his meeting with Quintin, Fidan discussed the strengthening of Türkiye-Belgium relations, which he described as “long-standing and friendly.” Bilateral trade and investment were among the highlights, with Fidan praising the increasing presence of Turkish investors in Belgium.

The two ministers also addressed European Union-related issues, including Türkiye’s EU accession bid, visa liberalization, and the Customs Union. Türkiye conveyed its concerns over the presence of groups such as the PKK, DHKP-C, and FETO in Belgium, accusing them of exploiting local legal and political systems to act against Türkiye’s interests.

Fidan commended the Turkish diaspora in Belgium for their positive integration and role as a “bridge” between the two nations.

Syria and broader regional issues

Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s consistent stance on Syria, highlighting the need for the country’s new government to maintain territorial integrity and ensure internal security. He called for international support for Syria’s reconstruction, emphasizing Türkiye’s readiness to assist in rebuilding the nation’s economy and infrastructure.

Addressing the issue of detained Daesh members in camps and prisons, Fidan stressed that countries of origin must repatriate their citizens. He criticized the reliance on groups like the PKK to manage these camps, describing it as a “serious crisis for the international system.”

“Türkiye is prepared to offer support for transferring security responsibilities to the Syrian government,” Fidan stated. He also called for the expulsion of foreign fighters, particularly those affiliated with the PKK, from Syrian territories.

Call for end to Gaza violence

Fidan also condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza, describing it as a crime against humanity that threatens international stability. He urged for an immediate end to the suffering of Palestinians and expressed Türkiye’s commitment to promoting peace in the region.

Türkiye, Fidan concluded, will continue its diplomatic efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, advance regional stability, and support global peace initiatives.