Ankara to arm, train Syrian forces under new defence deal

Türkiye will assist Syria in training government army personnel and supplying military equipment and weapons systems under a newly signed memorandum between the defence ministries of the two countries, according to Turkish defence sources.

The agreement was formalised in Ankara on August 13 by Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler and Murhaf Abu Qasra, the defence minister in Syria’s transitional government, Caliber.Az reports per Turkish media.

Defence sources said the memorandum aims to coordinate and plan military training and cooperation, provide advisory support, facilitate the exchange of information and expertise, and ensure the supply of military hardware, weapons systems and logistical resources in line with Syria’s defence requirements.

“Türkiye will continue to assist Syria in combating terrorism and strengthening its defence and security capabilities,” the sources added.

By Aghakazim Guliyev