Newsletters
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan participated in a virtual meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Wednesday, according to information obtained from official sources.
According to information obtained, President Erdogan stated during the meeting that Türkiye desires Syria to be a stable and prosperous country that works with regional nations and does not pose threats to its neighbors. He emphasized that Türkiye continues to make efforts toward this goal.
President Erdogan affirmed that Türkiye would continue to support the Damascus administration in its fight against terrorist groups, particularly Daesh. He also indicated that Türkiye stands ready to assist in the management and security of detention facilities housing Daesh terrorists.
Erdogan described Trump's decision to lift sanctions against Syria as "historically significant," expressing his belief that this decision would set an example for other countries that have imposed sanctions. He added that this move would create investment opportunities in various sectors in Syria.
During the meeting, Erdogan noted that the humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated and that Türkiye continues its efforts to stop the spiral of violence. He emphasized that "it is time to end the humanitarian tragedy in Gaza."
President Erdogan also addressed the Russia-Ukraine War, stating that it would be beneficial to immediately start cease-fire and peace negotiations at both leadership and technical levels. He reiterated that Türkiye would continue to do its utmost to promote peace.
According to a statement from White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, President Erdogan praised President Trump for lifting sanctions on Syria and committed to working alongside Saudi Arabia to encourage peace and prosperity in Syria. The Crown Prince also commended Trump's decision, calling it "courageous."
President Trump thanked President Erdogan and the crown prince for their friendship and told President Sharaa that he has "a tremendous opportunity to do something historic in his country." Trump urged the Syrian President to take several specific actions, including:
In response, Sharaa thanked the leaders for organizing the meeting and recognized the significant opportunity presented by the Iranians leaving Syria. He acknowledged shared U.S.-Syrian interests in countering terrorism and eliminating chemical weapons, and affirmed Syria's commitment to the 1974 disengagement agreement with Israel.
Sharaa concluded by expressing hope that Syria would serve as a critical link in facilitating trade between East and West, and invited American companies to invest in Syrian oil and gas.
3 min read
