Syrian diplomat demands Turkish forces to leave Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Turkey has to withdraw its military forces from Syria or else it will decimate any efforts towards any kind of relations, according to Syrian Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Bassam Sabbagh.
Sabbagh told Sputnik, “Turkey has to withdraw its military forces. Any other aspects, yes, of course, we will be open to discuss with them, but not to do so and to insist on staying – that’s illegal occupation and then this will block all the efforts toward any kind of contacts and relations with Turkey.”
Turkey launched three military operations against northern and northeastern areas in Syria. The first was “Euphrates Shield” operation in 2016 where it occupied Jarablus and al-Bab, the second was “Olive Branch” operation in 2018 with which it occupied Afrin, and the third was “Peace Spring” in 2019 which resulted in the occupation of the two cities of Sere Kaniye (Ras al-Ain) and Tel Abyad with their countryside.
On Sept. 23, the Turkish Defense Minister Yaser Guler stressed the need for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to meet several requirements before the Turkish forces withdraw from northern Syria, including the establishment of a new constitution and the holding of democratic elections, in addition to the formation of a government that represents all Syrian sects.”.