Syria accepts Erdogan’s invitation to normalize ties

Syria expressed its willingness to engage in discussions with Türkiye on Saturday following Erdogan’s invitation to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad during a NATO press conference.

President Erdogan first showed willingness on July 7 to meet with his once sworn enemy Assad, saying “We have reached a point where as soon as Bashar al-Assad takes a step towards improving relations with Türkiye, we will show him that attitude in return.”

In a statement released by the Syrian Foreign Ministry, the government highlighted that the return to pre-2011 conditions is essential for the security, stability, and peace of both nations. The Ministry refrained from setting preconditions for talks or directly demanding the withdrawal of Turkish forces.

The Ministry emphasized Syria’s long-standing distinction between peoples and the policies of governments, stating, “Syria has always believed that the interests of nations are built on healthy relations, not on confrontation or hostility.” The statement underscored that Syria has positively approached various initiatives to improve relations with other countries, including efforts aimed at mending Syrian-Turkish relations.

According to the Ministry, these initiatives are purposeful processes based on existing facts and principles governing the relationship between the two states. These principles include respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, as well as addressing all threats to their security and stability. The Ministry clarified that any initiative must be built on clear foundations to achieve the desired results, particularly the normalization of relations.

The statement also highlighted that the withdrawal of illegally stationed forces from Syrian territory and the fight against terrorist groups are key components of any initiative aimed at restoring normal relations. The Ministry expressed gratitude to friendly and brotherly nations for their sincere efforts to correct Syrian-Turkish relations, reiterating that the restoration of normal relations hinges on returning to the pre-2011 status quo, which is essential for the security, peace, and stability of both countries.