Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa held talks in Ankara. Mr. Erdogan expressed his readiness to support Damascus in countering terrorism and the establishment of peace in the region. Mr. Al-Sharaa, in turn, called the meeting with the Turkish President the beginning of a new period of permanent friendship between the states.

“I believe that by acting in solidarity, we will ensure that an atmosphere of peace and security free from terror reigns in our common geographical region. I expressed my readiness to provide the necessary support to Syria in the fight against all forms of terrorism, whether the Islamic State or the PKK,” Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at a briefing (quoted by Anadolu).

The Syrian President said that Damascus seeks partnership with Ankara, including in security matters. According to him, there are special fraternal relations between the countries, which the parties want to elevate to the level of strategic partnership in all areas. Ahmed al-Sharaa also invited Recep Tayyip Erdogan to visit Damascus.