Turkish FM: SDF must end divisive approach to help stabilise Syria

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on January 8 that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) must abandon what he described as divisive policies and contribute to national unity in Syria, warning that such approaches undermine stability and prolong the country’s crisis.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Ankara with Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Hamad Al Busaidi, Fidan said recent developments in Aleppo had confirmed long-standing Turkish concerns about the situation on the ground, Caliber.Az reports via Syrian media. 

He said the SDF had failed to assume its responsibility toward Syria’s national unity, accusing the group of seeking to maintain the status quo rather than engaging in an integration process.

Fidan noted that trying to gain time and preserve the current situation does not serve the Syrian people or regional stability, adding that this approach only deepens instability.

The Turkish foreign minister also said the Syrian government had recently made progress in rebuilding state capacity, strengthening its counterterrorism capabilities and improving the provision of basic services to citizens.

Fidan reaffirmed that Türkiye supports lasting stability in Syria based on the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national unity.

By Sabina Mammadli