Türkiye’s Fidan: PKK will be forced to leave Syria

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has declared that the PKK terrorist organisation must end its presence in Syria, mirroring the fate of Daesh, which was driven out of the country.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Doha with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Fidan said the time had come for armed groups seeking to destabilise regional governments to "exit the system", Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

"The PKK will leave the system in Syria just as Daesh did," Fidan said. "It will either do so voluntarily and peacefully, or it will be forced to do so by other means."

He reiterated Türkiye’s firm opposition to any initiatives undermining Syria’s territorial integrity or sovereignty, warning against moves that would see weapons transferred to groups operating outside the central government’s control. Fidan stressed that Ankara supports the creation of a Syrian constitution and administration formed by Syrians themselves, ensuring equal rights for all segments of society.

The Turkish foreign minister also revealed that Ankara, together with Qatar and other regional countries, has been discussing ways to support Syria’s economy and to lift international sanctions.

Addressing the broader challenges in Syria, Fidan said Türkiye and its regional partners had held talks on development, economic recovery, and the easing of sanctions.

He vowed that Türkiye would continue to counter forces seeking to exploit the situation in Syria to further their agendas and undermine the country’s unity.

Commenting on a recent agreement between the YPG and Syrian authorities, Fidan said Ankara expected the deal to be fully implemented. "Our sensitivity on this issue is well known," he added.

Fidan also expressed hope that the PKK would heed calls to disarm and cease obstructing efforts to restore stability and normal life in the region.

Reflecting on the years of conflict, war, and occupation that have plagued Syria, he concluded: "It is now time to move beyond the bloodshed and chaos and build a prosperous, secure, dignified, and free system."

By Aghakazim Guliyev