Ankara: Turkey and Syria have signed a military cooperation agreement in Ankara, covering training and technical advisory fields to enhance the capabilities of the Syrian army. The agreement focuses on developing structures and institutions and supporting a comprehensive security sector reform process.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the agreement was signed by Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Gler and Syrian Defense Minister Marhaf Abu Qasra. It involves specialized training courses for Syrian army personnel to improve their operational readiness and strengthen joint operational capabilities between the two nations.

The accord includes the development of programs in areas such as counterterrorism, demining, cyber defense, military engineering, logistics, and peacekeeping operations, aligning with international best practices. On the technical side, it stipulates the deployment of specialized experts to aid in the modernization of military systems, organizational structures, and command capabilities.

This initiative is part of broader efforts to develop and professionalize the Syrian army according to international standards. Earlier in the day, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani arrived in Ankara with an official delegation, including Defense Minister Marhaf Abu Qasra and Intelligence Chief Hussein Salama, for discussions with senior Turkish officials.