Syria's territorial integrity 'non-negotiable,' Fidan says

Türkiye's Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, emphasized on Dec. 22 that Syria's territorial integrity is "non-negotiable" and reiterated there is no place for the PKK/YPG terror group in the country.

"This is not the time to wait and see; we must act," Fidan stated during a joint press conference with Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of Syria's new administration, held in Damascus.

"The territorial integrity of Syria is non-negotiable. The PKK/YPG is occupying Syrian lands and exploiting its natural resources. The group must dissolve itself immediately."

Fidan praised the Syrian people's determination to confront the PKK/YPG, describing their resilience as a key factor in reclaiming their nation's sovereignty.

He expressed hope that his visit would encourage other countries to engage with Syria's new administration and called on Arab nations and the global community to support the country's normalization process.

Fidan noted that with the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, Syria has entered a new chapter. Assad, who had ruled for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on Dec. 8 after anti-regime forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, captured Damascus in a swift 12-day offensive.

The collapse of the Ba'ath Party regime, in power since 1963, created a power vacuum that the PKK/YPG has sought to exploit.

"Syria's darkest period is behind it. Better days lie ahead," Fidan remarked, emphasizing that the future will be determined by the Syrian people.

Fidan credited the Syrian people for toppling Assad's regime. "This victory is yours alone, achieved through your sacrifices," he said.

He urged the international community to lift sanctions on Syria, which he described as critical for reconstruction and the safe return of displaced...