Türkiye reaffirms commitment to supporting Syria’s fight for freedom, democracy

By Kemal Karadag and Muhammet Emin Avundukluoglu

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus addressed ongoing developments in Syria on Monday, highlighting the struggles of the Syrian people under the Baath regime and their fight for freedom.

"Türkiye, as a neighbor, will evaluate the developments in Syria carefully, without being swayed by any sentiments, and from the perspective of our national interests," said Kurtulmus during discussions held at Türkiye’s Grand National Assembly in the capital Ankara.

"We will strive to fulfill our responsibilities to help build a free and democratic Syria, leaving behind all past suffering," he added.

Kurtulmus also emphasized the importance of Syria's territorial integrity, calling it one of Türkiye’s key priorities.

He outlined the need for cooperation, unity and integration in the region rather than fragmentation or division.

"Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are of critical importance for both the Syrian people and Türkiye’s national interests," he stated.

He also reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting a Syria free from terrorism.

"Türkiye, as a mature and truly democratic country in the region, will fulfill its responsibility to guide the Syrian people toward democracy.

"Another priority is to establish a Syria entirely free from terrorist organizations which have destabilized the region through external support for many years," he added.

Kurtulmus also stressed that future peace in Syria depended on maintaining unity and stability.

He also noted that an essential priority for Türkiye was the "honorable and safe return of the refugees who have been hosted in our country for many years."

"Türkiye will cooperate with the new Syrian government to ensure the safe and dignified return of refugees in Türkiye, Lebanon and Jordan," he emphasized.

Türkiye’s expectation, according to Kurtulmus, is to see a Syria that no longer suffers and is united under a democratic system.

"We wish the new era in Syria brings peace and prosperity to the Syrian people," he said.

Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz also spoke during the discussions.

"The establishment of trust, along with the improvement of the economic and political environment, will enable our Syrian brothers and sisters to return safely, honorably and voluntarily to their homeland,” he said.

*Writing by Gizem Nisa Cebi in Istanbul