President Erdogan discusses normalization with Syria on return from Germany

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, after attending the 2024 European Championship quarter-final match between Türkiye and the Netherlands in Germany, made significant statements regarding Türkiye’s foreign relations and domestic issues during his return flight.

Erdogan was present at the Berlin Olympic Stadium along with first lady Emine Erdogan, Youth and Sports Minister Osman Askin Bak, Türkiye’s ambassador Ahmet Basar Sen, President of the Turkish Football Federation Mehmet Buyukeksi, and other officials.

Highlighting the potential normalization with Syria, Erdogan stated, “We want to return to the old days in Türkiye-Syria relations.” He mentioned the possibility of inviting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to Türkiye, emphasizing that Türkiye was never an enemy of Syria and had family connections with Assad.

Syrian refugees

Erdogan noted that over three million Syrian refugees currently reside in Türkiye. He expressed readiness to improve relations with Syria if Assad takes steps toward reconciliation, reaffirming that Türkiye was never an adversary of Syria and had close ties with Assad’s family in the past.

Addressing recent events in Kayseri, Erdogan condemned political provocations, asserting that the state would take necessary actions against such disruptions. He warned internal politicians to act wisely to avoid further unrest.

Russian involvement

The Turkish President also mentioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin supports the idea of a meeting in Türkiye, indicating potential progress in Türkiye-Syria relations.

‘Moment by moment’ for a ceasefire in Gaza

Erdogan spoke on recent positive developments in Gaza, mentioning talks between Mossad officials and Hamas representatives in Doha that aimed at establishing a permanent ceasefire. He pointed out that the main challenge lies in Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s stance.

Pressure on Israel

Calling for increased international pressure on Israel, Erdogan criticized Israel for continuing attacks and urged Western countries, particularly the U.S., to stop supporting Israel. He reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to peace and a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders.

Congratulations to Keir Starmer

Erdogan mentioned his intention to congratulate Keir Starmer, the leader of the UK’s Labour Party, on his recent achievements. He emphasized the importance of discussing future Türkiye-UK relations post-Brexit.

Reflecting on past collaborations with both Labour and Conservative prime ministers, Erdogan underscored the significance of working towards mutual interests and expressed his commitment to strengthening ties with the UK in the new era.

UEFA penalty

Erdogan criticized UEFA’s penalty against Merih Demiral for his grey wolf salute, calling it a politically motivated decision against the Turkish nation. He praised the national team’s performance and emphasized the importance of promoting local football talent.

Future of Turkish football

Expressing pride in the national team’s achievements, Erdogan looked forward to the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 European Championship, advocating for fewer foreign players in the domestic league to nurture local talent.

Erdogan also made remarks about 19-year-old football player Arda Guler. “God really gave him many different talents. Especially on set-pieces and corners, Arda was marvelous, ” he said.

He also defended Coach Montella against criticism, stating that occasional mistakes are part of the game.