As Syria begins to emerge from years of devastating conflict, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasizes the critical role of international cooperation in facilitating the country’s recovery. In comments made on local television, he highlighted that investment is slowly returning, but the scale of destruction remains immense.
Challenges of Reconstruction in Syria
Fidan stated, “Investments in Syria are gradually starting to take shape, but the scale of destruction is enormous.” He noted that as people begin to return to their homes, there is an urgent need for infrastructure that can provide access to basic services. This reconstruction effort requires the joint support of regional countries alongside partners from Europe and the United States.
Addressing concerns that the current Syrian administration lacks full control over the territory, Fidan asserted that Türkiye believes a significant degree of control has been established, despite ongoing challenges in certain areas. He pointed specifically to regions dominated by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which is largely affiliated with the PKK/YPG group. “Outstanding issues there need to be resolved within the framework of the March 10 agreement, aimed at integrating the SDF into state institutions to prevent further conflict,” he explained.
Regional Security and Economic Potential
Fidan also highlighted southern Syria as a significant area of concern, describing it as the nation’s “biggest risk area” at present. He stated that while the overall situation is manageable, the involvement of Israel complicates matters further. Increased military incursions by Israel have intensified since the overthrow of Bashar Assad last December, raising the stakes for regional stability.
Despite these challenges, Fidan remains optimistic about the potential for economic collaboration between Türkiye and Syria. He remarked, “There is significant potential in terms of trade, transportation, and connectivity. But first, stability needs to be restored within the country.” This focus on recovery underscores the importance of both security and economic development as Syria navigates this complex transition.
As these discussions unfold, the international community continues to monitor the situation closely, recognizing that cooperation will be essential for lasting recovery and peace in Syria.
