Turkish FM stresses no compromise on Syrian autonomy, calls for equality for Kurds

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan addressed a wide range of pressing international issues, focusing heavily on the ongoing situation in Syria.

In an interview with TV100, Fidan emphasized Türkiye's firm stance on Syria's territorial integrity and sovereignty, reiterating that there would be no compromise regarding the establishment of autonomous regions within Syria, Caliber.Az reports.

Fidan underscored the necessity for all armed groups involved in terrorist activities to leave Syrian territory, allowing the population to return to normal life. "There is no compromise on the establishment of autonomies in Syria," he stated clearly, reaffirming Türkiye's position against any attempt to alter the country's state structure.

On the topic of granting equal rights to Kurds in Syria, Fidan noted that the Syrian government does not support such demands. He pointed out that any efforts for stronger local administration or autonomy put forth by the PKK/YPG terrorist organization are not aligned with the goals of the Syrian state.

"The Syrian administration does not have such an understanding. I don't think this issue is relevant for the new Syria," Fidan said.

However, Fidan emphasized Türkiye's proposal to the new Syrian administration, suggesting that the rights of Syrian Kurds should be recognized and upheld. "Our proposal to the new administration is to give rights to the Syrian Kurds," he added.

When asked about the factors that led the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to engage with the new Syrian administration, Fidan explained that Türkiye had been advocating for the cessation of the YPG's control since December.

"In fact, we said at the very beginning that from December 8, the new Syrian administration should take the initiative to end the occupation and piracy of the YPG," he remarked. This strategy, Fidan noted, had been championed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan from the outset.

According to Fidan, this presents a historic opportunity for Syria to address longstanding issues. He stressed that it is essential for the new administration in Syria to grant Kurdish Syrians their rights to equality and to rectify past injustices.

"It is important for the new administration in Syria to grant the Kurds in Syria their rights to equality and remove oppression and historical injustice," Fidan concluded, underscoring the significance of this issue for both President Erdoğan and Türkiye.

By Vafa Guliyeva