Turkey Sets Out Four Conditions for Normalization of Relations with Syria

Turkey has announced four conditions for the normalization of relations with Syria, aiming to restore ties to their pre-2011 state. President Erdogan, in a call for rapprochement with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad last month, stated that Turkey would reciprocate any steps taken by Syria to improve relations. Assad, in his own address to the Syrian parliament, acknowledged the need for a reversal of policies that contributed to the current situation, including the withdrawal of Turkish forces from Syrian territory and an end to support for terrorist groups. He emphasized that these conditions are not a prerequisite for the initiation of discussions. Following these statements, the Turkish Foreign Ministry issued a statement outlining its conditions for normalization, asserting that four key points are crucial for restoring relations to their pre-2011 status: 1. The eradication of terrorist elements in Syria to ensure its territorial integrity and unity. 2. The establishment of a genuine national consensus in Syria, based on the aspirations of its people and the UN Security Council Resolution 2254. 3. The creation of conditions for the safe and dignified return of Syrian refugees. 4. The uninterrupted continuation of humanitarian aid.