Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reiterated his steadfast support for the transitional Syrian government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, emphasizing his commitment to a unified Syria and rejecting any fragmentation within the country. Erdogan underscored the importance of Syria's recovery, describing it as beneficial for Trkiye.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan expressed these views to reporters during his return flight from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), where he attended the 51st anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation. He criticized Israel's role in destabilizing the region, stating, "At a time when even unlikely actors are coming together on Syria, it's crucial to explain to the world that Israel is disrupting efforts to restore stability."
Erdogan's comments come amid ongoing tensions in Syria's Suwayda, a city that has recently witnessed clashes between Bedouin tribes and the minority Druze, followed by an Israeli intervention. The Turkish president praised his Syrian counterpart's firm stance in maintaining a ceasefire and fostering reconciliation among diverse societal segments. He accused Israel of opposing regional stability, arguing, "Israel does not want stability in the region. It believes that a unified Syria would not be in its interest and continues with such provocations."
On the Cyprus issue, Erdogan reiterated his position against visiting Southern Cyprus, citing mutual non-recognition between the two regions. He maintained that a two-state solution is the only viable resolution to the Cyprus dispute, asserting, "Just as they do not recognize TRNC as a state, we don't recognize Southern Cyprus as a state." He affirmed Trkiye's unwavering support for the Turkish Cypriots and the continuation of peace on the island.
In terms of EU relations, Erdogan mentioned positive developments regarding the sale of Eurofighter jets to Trkiye from the UK and Germany. He urged the European Union to expedite Trkiye's accession negotiations, highlighting the EU's need for a dynamic member like Trkiye amid regional challenges and internal EU differences. "We expect them to understand that it is not possible to advance relations with the ambivalent attitude we have seen so many times before," Erdogan said.
Regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Erdogan condemned Israel's actions in the region, asserting, "Israel is lashing out like a crazed monster, and will destroy itself in this fury." He highlighted ongoing diplomatic communications between the US and Trkiye, emphasizing the global push for a ceasefire. "Everyone agrees on what needs to be done. They are pushing very hard for a ceasefire," he concluded.