Türkiye accuses Syrian SDF of stalling integration talks with Damascus
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, during a visit to Damascus, stated the Syrian Democratic Forces show no real intent to advance negotiations for integration with the Syrian government, citing coordination with Israel as a major obstacle.
During a high-level visit to Damascus, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan declared that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) lack a genuine willingness to progress in talks aimed at their integration with the Syrian government. Fidan, speaking at a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, identified the group's coordination with Israel as a primary barrier.
SDF-Israel Coordination Cited as Key Obstacle
"The fact that the SDF carries out some of its activities in coordination with Israel currently represents a major obstacle in the discussions being held with Damascus," Fidan stated. He characterized the SDF's conduct as a serious impediment to ongoing negotiations between the Kurdish-led force and the Syrian administration. The Turkish delegation, which also included Defense Minister Yasar Guler and intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin, engaged in wide-ranging talks focusing on bilateral relations, regional security, and threats to Syria's stability.
High-Level Talks and Security Priorities
The officials are scheduled to meet Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa to conduct a comprehensive assessment of Turkish-Syrian relations over the past year. A key agenda item is the implementation of the March 10 agreement, which is closely tied to Türkiye's national security. The discussions are also expected to address emerging security risks in southern Syria stemming from Israeli actions.
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Progress on Stability and Impact of Sanctions Relief
Fidan emphasized the interconnection of Syrian and Turkish stability, noting "great progress" in security over the last year. He highlighted the repeal of the US Caesar Act sanctions as a major advantage that will enable investments to flow into Syria, contributing to regional stability. "I believe our brothers and sisters in Syria will make the best possible use of this opportunity," Fidan concluded.
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