Erdogan urges international unity for Syria’s rapid reconstruction at D-8 summit

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a bilateral meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the Islamic D-8 summit in Cairo. 

According to a statement from the Turkish Presidency, during the talks, Erdogan emphasized the need for international collaboration in the swift reconstruction of Syria, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

“President Erdogan expressed Türkiye's desire to see Syria as a nation where stability and security prevail, terrorism is eliminated, and refugees return voluntarily,” the statement read. He underscored the importance of preserving Syria's territorial integrity and unity, stressing that regional and global cooperation is essential for the country's stabilization and recovery, which, in turn, would ensure the security of the broader region.

Erdogan also highlighted the strategic partnership between Ankara and Tehran, describing it as a cornerstone of regional stability. He noted the potential to expand bilateral trade between Türkiye and Iran to $30 billion annually.

At a subsequent press conference following his discussions with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Erdogan reiterated Türkiye's unwavering stance on Syria's territorial integrity.

“Our priority is to normalise the lives of Syrians by building essential infrastructure and housing,” Erdogan stated. “Establishing a stable administration that represents all sectors of society is vital — not just for Syria, but for the entire region.” He reaffirmed that preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and unity remains a non-negotiable principle for Türkiye.

Erdogan praised Lebanon's solidarity, noting the shared commitment between Ankara and Beirut to address the Syrian crisis. “The stability of Syria directly influences the stability of the region. Like Türkiye, Lebanon has demonstrated generosity by welcoming our Syrian brothers,” he said.

Erdogan called for stronger international support, emphasising that regional stability hinges on Syria’s recovery. “Reviving Syria is a shared goal for Türkiye, Lebanon, and all nations impacted by its prolonged instability. We urge the international community to contribute meaningfully to this effort,” he added.

The D-8 summit, which commenced on December 19, centres on “Investing in Youth and Supporting Small and Medium Enterprises: Shaping Tomorrow's Economy.” Established in 1997 in Istanbul under the leadership of then-Turkish Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan, the Islamic G-8, or D-8, has continued to foster economic cooperation among its member states.

By Tamilla Hasanova