Erdogan Stresses Stronger Ties with Syria

(MENAFN) Turkish Leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan underscored the growing relationship between Türkiye and Syria during a private meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Istanbul on Saturday. The two leaders focused on enhancing collaboration in various key sectors, particularly in energy, defense, and transportation.

Their discussion, held behind closed doors, also covered international and regional affairs. President Erdogan conveyed his optimism regarding Syria’s future, expressing hope for a more stable and prosperous era.

He assured his Syrian counterpart that Türkiye would remain a steadfast supporter of Damascus, as it has consistently been.

Erdogan firmly criticized what he described as "Israel’s occupation and aggression in Syria," declaring that "Türkiye will continue to oppose it."

His comments reinforced Ankara’s stance on the issue and highlighted Türkiye’s continued commitment to Syria’s sovereignty.

This meeting marked al-Sharaa’s first visit to Türkiye following the recent decisions by the United States and European Union to ease sanctions on Syria.

Erdogan welcomed the lifting of restrictions and stressed the significance of maintaining Syria’s national unity. He further underlined the need for a unified command to oversee both the Syrian government and its military forces.

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