"Under the leadership of our president Erdoğan, an important step has been taken towards a political solution in Idlib," Akar said

"We will continue to be a deterrent force to prevent any violation to the ceasefire. None occurred since ceasefire entered into force. Turkey will use self-defense rights if there is any attack targeting its forces or bases in the region," he added.

On 5 March 2020, a top-level meeting took place between Turkish President Erdogan and the Russian President Putin, a ceasefire was agreed to start 6 March and a 6 km safe zone to be established along the M4 Highway.  (ILKHA)