Syria’s territorial integrity, political unity comes first for Türkiye: Communications chief

ISTANBUL

Upholding Syria’s territorial integrity, political unity, and unitary structure are top priorities for Türkiye, the head of the country's Communications Directorate said in remarks published Monday.

“Türkiye's priority is protecting Syria's territorial integrity, political unity, and unitary structure. This structure is essential to ensuring the integrity of the region and the future of the Syrian people,” Fahrettin Altun said in an interview with regional broadcaster Euronews.

Highlighting Ankara's support for the legitimate demands and rights of Syrians, as well as its respect for their will, Altun said their resilience and endeavor to shape their future has been key.

Altun said Ankara remains committed to this position in the aftermath of the Bashar Assad regime's downfall earlier this month, as well as to genuinely helping heal the wounds of the Syrian people, supporting their development, and promoting peace.

"For this reason, we prioritize the peace and safety of the local population. To this end, we are working to ensure the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of Syrian refugees," he added.

Guided by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's vision, the Foreign Ministry is actively engaged in intensive diplomatic efforts and maintaining open communication channels with all regional parties to safeguard Syria's territorial integrity and achieve lasting peace, he added.

Türkiye will not accept any attempts at political manipulation or ethnic division within Syrian territory under any circumstances, Altun vowed.

He also warned that the presence of terrorist organizations in Syria poses a threat not only to the country’s border security but also the stability of the entire region.

Reaffirming Türkiye’s stance against terrorism, Altun said Ankara pursues a solution-orientated policy based on justice and equity in cooperation with international actors, "whether it be the US, Russia, or Iran."

“Türkiye, as the advocate of justice and protector of the oppressed, will persist in its endeavors for the peace and stability of the region,” he added.

Türkiye never gives up its EU bid

Pointing out Türkiye's longstanding effort to join the EU, Altun said the country never gave up on its membership aspirations.

Stating that Türkiye’s drive to join the bloc is an “intregral part of our strategic vision,” Altun said this is “more than just a foreign policy decision; it demonstrates our dedication to democracy, as well as our efforts for development and global collaboration.”

He added that next year "may present new opportunities in this area. However, it is important to note that the European Union's approach is also a decisive factor in this process."

Altun urged the EU to accept Türkiye as a member for the bloc to assume “an effective position on the global stage.”

“Türkiye has always maintained an attitude of readiness to strengthen cooperation with the EU. We fundamentally anticipate the elimination of double standards in the accession process as well as the establishment of a constructive dialogue,” he said.

Ankara is convinced that in the near future, there will be a strong need for the EU to strengthen its cooperation with it, especially to find joint solutions to both global and regional challenges, Altun said.