Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared that the era of terrorism in the region has ended and emphasized the necessity for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to adhere to the ceasefire agreement in Syria and integrate fully into Syrian state institutions.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Erdogan’s statements were made during a speech at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, following a cabinet meeting. He reiterated Turkey’s commitment to supporting Syria during challenging times and assured that Turkey would oppose any interventions that threaten regional stability. Erdogan emphasized the importance of a unified Syria for regional prosperity and voiced Turkey’s ongoing support for Syria in the fight against terrorism.
Erdogan discussed his recent phone call with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, wherein he assured continued Turkish support for Syria. He highlighted that Syria belongs to all its people, irrespective of ethnic or religious backgrounds, and criticized those seeking to create divisions. Erdogan expressed satisfaction with the ceasefire and unification agreement, which excludes a minority aiming to establish a separate state.
He cautioned against falling into provocations and stressed the importance of regional unity among Turks, Arabs, and Kurds. Erdogan highlighted the historical bonds among these groups and reiterated the need for decisive action against terrorism. He also warned that attempts to delay the peace process would be futile.
Erdogan’s comments come after a significant agreement between Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and the SDF, which includes a ceasefire and administrative changes. The agreement transfers control of key provinces to the central government and integrates SDF personnel into state ministries. It also involves the Syrian government taking over oil and gas fields and border crossings, reducing military presence in urban areas, and forming local security forces.
This agreement marks a major political and military milestone since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in 2014, representing a successful culmination of internal Syrian efforts with regional and international support, ending a decade-long separation in northeastern Syria.