Speaking after the Presidential Cabinet meeting on Monday, Erdogan emphasized that Türkiye's approach to the Syrian conflict has always been driven by compassion and conscience, rather than self-interest.
"The Turkish nation will forever carry the honour of embracing the oppressed Syrians in their dark days," Erdogan stated, following the collapse of the Bashar al Assad regime in Syria. He highlighted Türkiye's consistent calls for dialogue to resolve the conflict, which were ignored by Assad. "The value of the hand extended by our country has not been recognised," he added.
Erdogan condemned Assad's negligence, which he said led to nearly 1 million deaths, the displacement of 12 million people, and the destruction of many cities. He expressed hope that the recent changes in Syria would bring positive outcomes for the Syrian people, particularly refugees. As stability returns, Türkiye plans to reopen the Yayladagi Border Gate to facilitate voluntary, safe, and dignified refugee returns.
In his address, Erdogan also welcomed the liberation of Tal Rifaat and Manbij from the PKK/YPG terrorist organization. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to counterterrorism, stating that the country has no territorial ambitions and aims solely to protect its citizens from terrorist attacks. "The territorial integrity of Syria must be preserved," he stressed.
Erdogan concluded by asserting that Türkiye's peaceful and active policies are transforming the region and securing a brighter future for humanity. (ILKHA)