"In Syria, we want to end as soon as possible our endeavor with victory and prevent any further bloodshed. To this end, we explore all diplomatic avenues in addition to our fight on the ground," said Erdoğan, in reference to Turkey’s ongoing endeavor in Syria, while addressing NGO representatives in Ankara.

Stressing that Turkey has been hosting nearly 4 million refugees for the past 9 years but that an additional burden is now being tried to be laid on it with 1.5 million more refugees who are being pushed towards the Turkish border in Idlib, Erdoğan recalled his former warning that "we shall open the border gates unless the West shares the burden” and continued: “The gates are now open. You will have your share of the burden."

"We explore all diplomatic avenues in addition to our fight on the ground"

Drawing attention to the importance of NGOs’ activities in their own areas in terms of Turkey’s endeavor in Syria, President Erdoğan stated: "Such an endeavor of Turkey’s would now be taking place under much harsher circumstances were it not for the progress we have made in other areas besides defense industry."

President Erdoğan further stressed: "In Syria, we want to end as soon as possible our endeavor with victory and prevent any further bloodshed. To this end, we explore all diplomatic avenues in addition to our fight on the ground." (ILKHA)