Syrian Interim President Visits Turkey to Attend Antalya Diplomacy Forum Amid Rising Regional Tensions
By Kardo Roj
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Syrian Interim President Ahmad al-Shar’a arrived in Antalya, Turkey, on Friday to participate in the fourth edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF2025), marking his second visit to Turkey since assuming office and reflecting growing diplomatic engagement amid regional uncertainty.
The Syrian Presidency confirmed al-Shar’a’s arrival, underscoring that the visit is part of a broader regional tour aimed at mobilizing political and economic support for his transitional government. This high-level participation also highlights Syria’s emerging presence in regional diplomatic platforms following years of isolation and internal turmoil.
Earlier this week, Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the president’s itinerary includes both Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, with the latter marking his first official visit to the Gulf country. His February visit to Ankara was his first bilateral meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
The timing of this visit carries weight, particularly as diplomatic sources report that security cooperation, especially concerning northern Syria, will feature prominently in closed-door talks. Turkish media suggest the forum will serve as an opportunity for both sides to explore new military coordination and economic arrangements.
Of particular interest are reports discussing possible new field arrangements, including proposals for Turkish observation posts inside Syrian territory. Though still under consideration, such measures reflect Ankara’s evolving approach to border security and regional alliances, particularly in light of increasing tensions with Israel and shifting power dynamics in the Levant.
While the Syrian government continues its efforts to reassert authority nationwide, the reality on the ground remains complex. Large parts of the northeast are governed by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), whose security is maintained by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed military coalition that has played a vital role in countering Islamic State (ISIS) remnants and maintaining stability in the region.
Analysts note that any regional realignment or field arrangement will inevitably intersect with the operational areas of the SDF. The group has long emphasized the need for a political solution that guarantees decentralized governance and regional security, while also warning against unilateral military actions that could undermine the fight against terrorism or destabilize hard-won peace.
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum, organized under the patronage of President Erdoğan and hosted by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is being held from April 11 to 13 in the southern province of Antalya. This year’s theme, “Embracing Diplomacy in a Divided World,” reflects ongoing geopolitical challenges and the need for inclusive dialogue.
According to Turkish sources, the event will see participation from high-level representatives across the Middle East and North Africa, including delegations from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Egypt, Lebanon, Yemen, and Tunisia. Such a broad turnout signals a renewed focus on regional diplomacy amid global fractures and localized tensions.
President Erdoğan is expected to deliver the forum’s opening remarks, emphasizing Ankara’s vision for regional stability and cross-border cooperation.