Erdoğan receives Blinken for talks on Syria

ANKARA

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to Syria's territorial integrity and unity during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Ankara on Thursday.

The leaders discussed bilateral relations, ongoing developments in Syria, and global and regional matters, according to a statement from Türkiye's Communications Directorate.

Erdoğan emphasized Türkiye's determination to take measures against threats to its national security, citing terrorist organizations such as the PKK/PYD/YPG and ISIL operating in Syria.

Erdoğan said that Türkiye, which it described as the only NATO country that has fought ISIL in direct combat, will "prevent the PKK terror group and its affiliates from taking advantage of the situation" and "will never allow any setback" in the fight against ISIL.

The president also called on the international community to support Syria's institutional revival and reconstruction. He stressed that Türkiye remains committed to advancing bilateral relations with the U.S. across all areas.

According to a statement from the U.S. State Department, the discussions highlighted strong U.S.-Turkish regional cooperation and support for a "Syrian-led and Syrian-owned" political transition toward an accountable and inclusive government.

Blinken reiterated the importance of respecting human rights, protecting civilians, including minorities, and upholding international humanitarian laws. He also emphasized the need to facilitate humanitarian aid and ensure the coalition's continued mission to defeat ISIL.

The officials further addressed the urgent need for a Gaza cease-fire and a hostage exchange deal along with enhanced humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians.

The meeting comes amidst long-standing disagreements between Ankara and Washington, particularly regarding U.S. support for the YPG, which Türkiye opposes due to its links with the PKK. The PKK has waged a decades-long campaign against Türkiye, claiming the lives of over 40,000 people, including civilians.

While the U.S. considers the YPG—also known by acronyms such as the SDF—a key partner in the fight against ISIL in Syria, it does not recognize the YPG as a terrorist group, although it does acknowledge the PKK as such.

Blinken, who visited Jordan before arriving in Türkiye, is expected to meet with Fidan on Friday.