President Erdoğan Urges Putin to Take Steps Toward Normalization with Assad

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, on his return flight from Tatarstan, responded to journalists' questions. Discussing expectations regarding relations with Syria, Erdoğan stated that they anticipate a realistic normalization step from the Syrian government with Turkey. He mentioned requesting Russian President Vladimir Putin to encourage Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to respond positively to this call.

Erdoğan emphasized Turkey's commitment to preserving Syria's territorial integrity and the necessity of establishing lasting peace in the region. He reiterated Turkey's resolve in combating terrorist organizations and highlighted the dangers of increasing instability in the area. The President noted that a sincere normalization step from the Syrian government with Turkey is crucial for improving relations between the two countries.

Addressing the rising instability and terror threat in the region, Erdoğan explained that growing instability in the Middle East is creating a breeding ground for terrorist organizations. He underscored the importance of normalizing relations with Syria to prevent this danger, stating that the instability in Syria is empowering regional terrorist groups, posing a direct threat to Turkey.

President Erdoğan highlighted the need for international cooperation to overcome these issues. He also noted Russia's influence over Syria and mentioned seeking support from Putin in encouraging Assad to respond positively to Turkey's call during their discussions. Erdoğan stressed the critical nature of taking such steps for regional peace and stability.