Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has affirmed Turkey’s commitment to taking “necessary steps” to hinder the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and its extensions from capitalizing on recent developments in Syria. This declaration aligns with Turkey’s focus on safeguarding its security and national interests.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Erdogan made these remarks during a phone conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani. He emphasized the importance of the Syrian regime engaging in a serious political process to avert further deterioration of the situation. Erdogan underscored that Turkey’s priorities include maintaining peace beyond its borders, ensuring civilian safety, and supporting Syria’s unity, stability, and territorial integrity, which he stated is a shared perspective with Iraq.

Erdogan reiterated the essential requirement for the Syrian regime to participate in a genuine political process. This step is deemed crucial by Turkey to prevent any adverse outco
mes and to maintain regional stability, which are pivotal to both Turkish and Iraqi interests.