FM: Iran, Türkiye must prevent Syria from becoming terrorist stronghold

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has revealed the existence of differences between Iran and Türkiye regarding the resolution of the conflict in Syria.

He made this statement following a meeting with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media. 

Araghchi emphasised the shared goal between the two countries to promote peace and stability in Syria, stressing the importance of maintaining the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

He described their discussion as very candid and constructive, acknowledging the differences in viewpoints but also highlighting areas of common ground. 

"The key point is that we have always discussed our disagreements, and we have agreed to engage in more dialogue to cooperate constructively for regional stability," Araghchi noted.

On December 2 morning, Araghchi arrived in Ankara, Türkiye to discuss bilateral and regional issues with high-ranking Turkish officials.

Araghchi was welcomed by Turkish and Iranian officials, including the Iranian ambassador to Ankara, upon his arrival at Ankara airport. 

Regional developments, especially the current situation in Syria are high on the agenda of Araghchi’s scheduled meetings with Turkish officials. 

On December 1 evening, the top Iranian diplomat arrived in the Turkish capital after his visit to Damascus where he met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and emphasised Tehran's full support for the Arab country its government and people in their fight against terrorism. Iran, Türkiye, and Russia are the guarantor countries of the Astana peace process on Syria. 

Ahead of his visit to Türkiye, Araghchi emphasised that Iran and Türkiye must prevent Syria from becoming a stronghold for terrorists or a centre of instability in the region again, despite the existing differences between the two countries on how to resolve the Syrian issue.

Araghchi’s Damascus visit comes as Syria’s army launched counterattacks to repel insurgents who’ve seized control of Aleppo, and areas in Idlib. 

On December 1, the Syrian army conducted a series of counterattacks in the cities of Aleppo and Idlib to push back insurgents who’ve made surprise advances. Syrian state television claimed government forces had killed nearly 1,000 insurgents over the past three days, without providing evidence or details.

By Naila Huseynova