Türkiye welcomes Syria ceasefire deal as step toward ‘terror-free’ region

Türkiye has welcomed the recent Ceasefire and Full Integration Agreement in Syria, describing it as a significant move toward establishing a “terror-free region” and restoring Syria’s territorial integrity. Communications Director Burhanettin Duran stated on Sunday that the deal aligns with long-standing principles articulated by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and reflects Türkiye’s persistent diplomatic and security engagement in Syria.

Ankara’s Dual-Track Approach: Security and Diplomacy

Duran emphasized that Türkiye remains a “strong actor both on the ground and at the negotiating table,” referencing ongoing military operations against terrorist groups along its border and active participation in political processes shaping Syria’s future. He stressed that lasting stability depends on guaranteeing equal citizenship rights for all ethnic and sectarian groups within a unified Syrian state.

Syria’s Sovereignty as a Turkish Priority

“Syria's territorial integrity and sovereignty are indispensable for Türkiye,” Duran noted, adding that Ankara views its neighbor’s security as inseparable from its own. He highlighted that steps taken by the Syrian government toward reintegrating autonomous-held areas and clearing terrorist organizations are crucial for regional peace. The statement signals Türkiye’s support for Damascus’s recent agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), provided it leads to the dismantling of groups Ankara designates as terrorist, particularly the YPG/PKK.

Monitoring Implementation and Regional Implications

Duran cautioned that Türkiye will closely monitor the implementation of the agreement’s conditions. The remarks underscore Ankara’s vigilant stance toward developments in northeastern Syria, where it has conducted cross-border operations in recent years. The deal, if fully realized, could reduce tensions between Damascus and Kurdish-led authorities while addressing Turkish security concerns—potentially reshaping the strategic landscape as Syria moves toward a fragile post-conflict phase.