“In the meeting, our interlocutors were briefed about Operation Claw-Sword, and our determination in the fight against terrorism was emphasized. Our interlocutors offered their condolences for the terror attack conducted in Istanbul. The political process, work of the Constitutional Committee, the situation on the ground, return of refugees, and humanitarian issues were also discussed at the meeting. A Joint Statement was adopted,” the Ministry said.

The Ministry underlined that in the Joint Statement, the Parties emphasized their strong support to Syria's territorial integrity, the leading role of the Astana Process in the peaceful settlement of the Syrian crisis, their determination to fight against the separatist agendas that pose threat to the national security of neighboring countries, including cross-border attacks and infiltrations.

“The Parties noted that all attempts to create illegitimate self-rule initiatives under the pretext of combating terrorism are unacceptable, they condemned the actions of countries that support terrorist entities including these initiatives in north east of Syria and expressed grave concern with increasing hostilities and all forms of oppression by the separatist groups against civilians in east of Euphrates, including through suppression of peaceful demonstrations, forced conscription, and discriminatory practices in the field of education,” The Ministry said.

The Ministry also stated that “the Parties also reaffirmed their commitment to the end of the Syrian conflict through a viable and lasting Syrian-led, Syrian-owned, UN-facilitated political process in line with the UN Security Council Resolution 2254, emphasized the important role of the Constitutional Committee in the political settlement of the Syrian conflict.” (ILKHA)