Agree on “roadmap” to normalize relations between Syria and Türkiye

The foreign ministers of the four countries have agreed to prepare a "roadmap" for normalizing relations between Syria and Turkey.

The talks between Russian Foreign Minister S.Lavrov, Iranian H.Amirabadollahian, Syrian F.Mikdad and Turkish Foreign Minister M.Cavusoglu lasted about 3 hours. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the ministers discussed in a substantive and frank manner the restoration of Syrian-Turkish relations in various aspects.

In accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254 and the official statements of the Astana Format, the participants reaffirmed their commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria, the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The need to increase international support for Syria was stressed, including the interests of the voluntary and safe return of Syrians to their homeland and post-conflict reconstruction.

The ministers also agreed to instruct their deputy foreign ministers to prepare a roadmap for promoting relations between Turkey and Syria in coordination with the work of the defense ministries and special agencies of the four countries. The ministers noted the positive and constructive atmosphere in the exchange of views and agreed to continue high-level contacts and technical negotiations in the quadrilateral format in the coming period. This is the first high-level meeting between the four countries since the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011.

Earlier, on April 25, during a meeting of the defense ministers of the four countries in Moscow, the issue of the withdrawal of Turkish forces from Syrian territory was discussed, among other issues. On April 24, Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar noted that Ankara is making every effort to contribute to peace in the region. He expressed hope that after the meeting in Moscow, positive developments on this issue could emerge. He assured that Türkiye will not take any steps that violate the rights of the Syrian side.

For years, since the conflict in Syria broke out, Türkiye has maintained a supportive stance towards the Syrian opposition and opened its borders to Syrian refugees heading to Europe. The normalization of relations between Turkey and Syria began in late December 2022, when Russia hosted the first talks between the Turkish and Syrian defense ministers.

Anh Tu (VOV-Moscow)

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