FM Hakan Fidan affirms Türkiye’s stance on Syrian sovereignty

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan declared on Sunday that Türkiye rejects any initiatives that target Syria’s territorial integrity, emphasizing his country’s commitment to Syria’s sovereignty during a joint press conference with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani in Doha.

“Türkiye does not accept any initiatives that undermine Syria’s sovereignty,” Fidan stated. “Any initiative allowing the holding of weapons outside the central authority will not be accepted.”

During his visit to Qatar, Fidan also met with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, underscoring the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Türkiye expresses desire for ‘Syria with a Constitution’

Fidan outlined Türkiye’s vision for Syria’s future, expressing desire for “a Syria with a Constitution and administration that provides equal opportunities to all groups in the country.” He noted that positive steps have already been taken toward this goal.

The Turkish foreign minister revealed that discussions have taken place with Qatar and other regional countries regarding Syria’s development, economic prospects, and the removal of sanctions.

Addressing security concerns, Fidan referenced a recent agreement between the YPG and the Syrian administration. “We are waiting for the implementation of the agreement signed between the YPG and the Syrian administration in recent months. Our sensitivity on this issue is clear,” he said.

He urged the PKK, which Türkiye designates as a terrorist organization, to “respond positively to the call, lay down its weapons, and stop obstructing the return to normalcy in the region.”

Reflecting on the region’s troubled history, Fidan emphasized that after years of “war, confusion, occupation, blood and tears,” it is time to build “a prosperous, safe, respectful and free system” appropriate for modern times.

Türkiye and Qatar have maintained aligned positions on regional conflicts, particularly regarding developments in Palestine and Syria. Both countries have advocated for an end to Israel’s military operations in Gaza and continue to collaborate through bilateral channels and multilateral forums, including the Gaza Contact Group.

The visit follows Fidan’s previous trip to Qatar in early February. Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as Qatar’s foreign minister, traveled to Türkiye earlier this month to participate in a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)–Gaza Contact Group, which was hosted by Fidan in Antalya, Türkiye.