Paris: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced the possibility of a lasting peace agreement to end the ongoing four-year conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Speaking in Paris after attending the "Coalition of the Willing" summit on Ukraine, Fidan outlined the intensive discussions held in the French capital.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Fidan met with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, discussing various issues, including the ongoing negotiations involving Israel, Syria, and the United States. Fidan emphasized Turkey's active consultations with both Syrian and American representatives. He also met with Tom Barrack, the US Ambassador to Ankara and Special Envoy to Syria, to discuss the progress of the trilateral talks.
Fidan criticized Israeli actions in Syria, describing them as part of an expansionist policy that destabilizes the region. He urged regional countries and the United States to conduct thorough assessments and take necessary measures to stabilize the area. Fidan also expressed concern over Israel's involvement in the Somali region of Somaliland, labeling it as a project to spread instability.
On Tuesday, Syria and Israel agreed to establish a joint communication mechanism, under US supervision, to facilitate intelligence sharing, reduce military tensions, and explore diplomatic and trade opportunities. This development followed two days of talks in Paris, concluded with a joint statement by the United States, Israel, and Syria.
Fidan described the Ukraine summit in Paris as significant, representing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. He highlighted discussions on critical areas for peace and Turkey's contributions to the process. Fidan expressed optimism about a potential agreement that would not only end the Ukraine war but also lay the groundwork for peace between Russia and Europe.
He discussed the roles countries might play following a peace agreement, emphasizing Turkey's readiness to assume responsibility for maritime security in the Black Sea, given its status as a NATO member with the largest fleet in the area. Fidan underscored Turkey's commitment to ensuring stability and peace in the region.
Additionally, Fidan revealed that a second meeting focused on Ukraine's economic recovery post-peace agreement, with President Erdogan prioritizing this issue. He stressed Turkey's expertise in economic investments and infrastructure, expressing confidence in Turkey's role in facilitating Ukraine's development.
Regarding Israel's recognition of Somaliland, Fidan reiterated Turkey's firm stance against actions that threaten the territorial integrity of sovereign states. He emphasized regional unity against such divisive policies and noted Turkey's efforts to mediate longstanding internal issues between Somaliland and Somalia's central government.