FM Fidan, Jordanian counterpart Safadi discuss Syria, terrorism and refugee crisis

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a crucial meeting with his Jordanian counterpart, Ayman Safadi, to discuss the ongoing situation in Syria and the broader geopolitical implications.

The two ministers addressed pressing regional issues, focusing particularly on terrorism, Syria's territorial integrity and the return of Syrian refugees. This high-level meeting took place within the "3+3 format," which also included top representatives from both countries.

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Why it matters

Syria continues to be a major source of instability in the Middle East, and this meeting between Turkiye and Jordan could be pivotal in shaping future regional strategies. Both countries face significant security concerns due to terrorist organizations like the PKK and Daesh operating in the region.

Strengthened cooperation between Turkiye and Jordan on these issues could improve counterterrorism efforts and enhance stability in Syria.

Furthermore, the return of Syrian refugees remains a critical humanitarian concern, and the discussions could offer a path toward sustainable solutions.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (C) receives Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi (3rd L) at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, Turkiye on Jan. 6, 2025. (AA Photo)

Details

• Fidan's comments on PKK: Fidan stressed that the "PKK's violent empire over the Kurdish people is collapsing" and issued a strong warning to the West about allowing the PKK to grow under the guise of fighting the Daesh terrorist organization. He made it clear that Turkiye would not permit the PKK to gain power in Syria.
• Call for disarmament: Fidan called for PKK/YPG terrorists in Syria to disarm immediately, highlighting the need to bring an end to the ongoing violence and conflict in the region.
• Jordan's support for Turkiye: Safadi reaffirmed Jordan's full support for a new Syria based on the sovereignty of the state and the restoration of citizens' rights. He expressed that Jordan aligns with Turkiye’s vision for a unified and stable Syria.
• High-level attendance: The "3+3 format" meeting included top officials from both countries, such as Turkiye’s National Defense Minister Yasar Guler, MIT President Ibrahim Kalin, and senior Jordanian military figures like General Yusuf al-Hunaiti and Major General Ahmed Husni. This underscores the strategic importance of the talks.

Zoom in

Fidan and Safadi discussed how foreign interventions in the region, particularly by Western powers, sometimes use the fight against Daesh as a cover to support other political agendas, such as empowering the PKK/YPG.

Both ministers agreed that the fight against terrorism must focus on the true threats to regional stability and should not be used as an excuse for geopolitical maneuvering. They also emphasized that the return of Syrian refugees should be dignified, voluntary, and part of a broader strategy for stability in the region.

Zoom out

The cooperation between Turkiye and Jordan is part of a broader effort to stabilize the Middle East. This meeting demonstrates the two countries' commitment to countering terrorism, ensuring Syria’s territorial integrity, and addressing the long-term refugee crisis.

Their collaboration sends a message that regional stability will require concerted efforts and shared priorities among neighboring countries, setting a model for future cooperation in the region.

January 06, 2025 05:37 PM GMT+03:00