The recent visit to Turkey by Syria's interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between Syria's new administration and its vital ally. Meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday, al-Sharaa's agenda centered on crucial issues such as Syria's economic recovery and the strategic implications of Kurdish-led forces near the Turkish border.
This visit, low-key in ceremonial aspects, signifies the importance of the discussions more than the pomp. Unlike typical receptions for heads of state, which involve military bands and ceremonial escorts, al-Sharaa's welcome was understated. Wearing a suit and red tie—an apparent acknowledgment of the Turkish flag—he was greeted by a modest honor guard, indicating a focus on substance over ceremony.
Syria and Turkey's cooperation are critical given their intertwined interests. Turkey was a long-standing supporter of groups opposing the now-defunct regime of Bashar Assad. Following a protracted civil war that led to Assad's overthrow by rebel groups in December, Turkey now stands as a prospective ally for Syria's interim government.
The discussions between al-Sharaa and Erdogan predominantly revolved around Syria’s path to economic revival and ensuring stability in the region. Erdogan’s government is particularly concerned about the Kurdish militias, which form a core part of the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Turkey categorizes these groups as extensions of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, which it considers a terrorist organization, and is actively engaged in military maneuvers aimed at curbing their influence along its 910-kilometer-long border with Syria.
During the talks, the shared goal of stabilizing northern Syria and kicking off its economic recovery took center stage. Syria's interim leadership acknowledges Turkey's significant role in shaping a stable future by addressing security concerns and exploring economic collaborations.
In a related development, Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the SDF, recently confirmed ongoing negotiations with al-Sharaa in Damascus. These discussions, facilitated by mediators, aim to reach compromises on Syria's future, including the role of Kurdish groups in the political landscape.
It's important to note that Turkey has provided refuge to millions of Syrians since the civil war erupted in 2011, peaking at over 3.8 million by 2022. These refugees represent both a humanitarian concern and a pivotal political challenge, elevating the importance of the talks between the two nations' leaders.
This meeting illustrates a significant step in Middle Eastern diplomacy, highlighting the intricate balance of regional politics, security concerns, and economic aspirations. As al-Sharaa continues his diplomatic engagements, the international community watches closely for signs of long-term strategies that might foster stability in a region fraught with complexity and burdened with the legacy of a decade-long conflict.
