ANKARA: Turkey will reopen its embassy in Damascus on Saturday, marking an important step towards the normalization of relations with Syria, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced Friday evening.
“Embassy staff are on their way and will begin operations tomorrow,” Hakan Fidan told Turkish broadcaster NTV.
This reopening follows the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime earlier this month, following a rapid advance by anti-regime forces. Assad fled to Russia, ending 13 years of civil war and more than five decades of his family’s rule.
Fidan credited Turkish diplomacy with Russia and Iran for ensuring a peaceful transition.
Fidan said the newly formed Syrian government is now capable of reconquering its territory and resisting external threats, including the PKK/YPG, a group that Ankara considers a terrorist organization.
“Our objective remains the elimination of the YPG. Either they dissolve or they will be dissolved,” Fidan said.
He also praised the new administration’s efforts to restore order and provide essential services, stressing that these developments pave the way for the return of more Syrians.
“As conditions improve, I think the number of returns will undoubtedly increase,” he added.
Fidan responded to growing regional concerns, particularly regarding Israel’s actions in Syria. He accused Israel of adopting a “dangerous strategy” aimed at undermining Syria’s stability and carrying out operations in the Golan Heights.
Turkey has warned Israel to abandon such approaches, urging regional players to support Syria’s unity and recovery.
Fidan stressed the importance of creating an inclusive government in Syria that eliminates terrorism, respects the rights of minorities and guarantees access to basic services.
“No one should be involved in developing weapons of mass destruction, threatening regional stability or undermining the unity of Syria,” he said.
He called on Arab nations and the international community to engage constructively with Syria, encouraging a collaborative effort to resolve long-standing issues.
“Let us work together to resolve this issue in a positive way, ensuring peace and unity in Syria,” Fidan urged.
The reopening of the Turkish embassy marks a shift in Ankara’s approach to Syria, moving from confrontation to cooperation. It also reflects broader changes in the region, as major players recalibrate their strategies after years of conflict.
Fidan reiterated Turkey’s commitment to addressing concerns over terrorism and ensuring stability, while urging Western countries to repatriate Daesh prisoners and take responsibility for their citizens.
In this new phase, Fidan said, Turkey aims to balance its strategic objectives with support for Syria’s sovereignty, peace and development.
