PKK/YPG does not represent Kurdish population in Syria: FM Fidan

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a meeting with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in Ankara on Dec.20 to address key regional and international issues, including the situation in Syria, Türkiye- European Union (EU) relations, counterterrorism efforts and regional security.

During the discussions, Fidan emphasized the importance of ensuring Syria’s territorial integrity and political unity.

‘PKK/YPG does not represent Kurdish population in Syria’

During the meeting, Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity and political unity.

He reiterated the importance of maintaining an inclusive political transition process in the country while safeguarding the rights of all minority groups.

Fidan rejected the notion that PKK/YPG represents the Kurdish population in Syria, calling it a misrepresentation of the reality on the ground.

He stressed that PKK/YPG and Daesh must not be allowed to exploit Syria’s ongoing instability and asserted that the disarmament and dissolution of PKK/YPG are essential for lasting peace in the region.

Call for international support in Syria’s reconstruction

Fidan underscored the importance of safe and voluntary refugee returns as part of efforts to stabilize Syria. He called on the international community to adopt a constructive approach to Syria’s reconstruction and emphasized that global collaboration is necessary to prevent further humanitarian crises.

The meeting also highlighted the need for international solidarity in addressing Syria’s rebuilding process, ensuring both political and economic stability in the war-torn country.

Türkiye-EU relations: Germany’s role as key partner

The ministers discussed Türkiye-EU relations, with Fidan expressing Türkiye’s expectation that Germany takes a leading role within the EU to revitalize dialogue and collaboration.

He emphasized the mutual benefits of stronger Türkiye-EU ties, particularly in addressing shared challenges such as migration management, terrorism and economic stability.

Fidan noted Türkiye’s dedication to fostering transparent and productive cooperation with EU member states and emphasized that stronger ties would contribute to regional and global stability.

Security concerns, counterterrorism efforts in Syria

On security matters, Fidan addressed Türkiye’s concerns regarding ongoing terrorist threats from PKK/YPG and Daesh.

He stressed that these groups must not exploit the unstable situation in Syria and emphasized the importance of dismantling their operational networks.

Fidan also called for alternative solutions for managing Daesh detainee camps and prisons in Syria. He urged third-party countries to take responsibility for repatriating their citizens currently detained in Syria for their involvement with Daesh.

Global issues: Gaza, Russia-Ukraine conflict

Global concerns, including the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, were also central topics of discussion.

Fidan stressed the urgent need for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and emphasized the importance of uninterrupted humanitarian aid deliveries to those affected by the conflict.

On the Russia-Ukraine war, Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to supporting a permanent diplomatic resolution and emphasized the role of constructive dialogue in achieving lasting peace.

Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process

The ongoing peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia was also addressed. Fidan highlighted the historic opportunity for a lasting resolution and called on third-party nations to adopt an impartial and fair approach in supporting the negotiations.

He emphasized that continued dialogue and collaboration are essential to achieving sustainable peace in the region.

Baerbock was accompanied by Tobias Lindner, Germany’s minister of state, and the Federal Foreign Office’s special coordinator for Syria during her visit. Fidan also held separate talks with Tom Fletcher, the U.N. undersecretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator.