DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated on Monday that Israel believes a unified Syria does not serve its strategic interests.
Speaking to reporters aboard his plane during his return from Cyprus, Erdogan said that Israel continues its provocations and has no desire for stability in the region. It sees the unity of Syria as contrary to its own interests, he noted.
He added that Turkey must clearly demonstrate to the world that Israel is actively working to undermine efforts toward stability in Syria.
Commenting on the recent developments in the southern Syrian city of Suwayda, Erdogan said that Syrian Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa has taken a firm and uncompromising stance in response to the latest events in his country.
He affirmed that Turkey will not abandon al-Sharaa and stands by him.
Erdogan stressed Turkey’s opposition to any fragmentation of Syria, adding they do not want Syria to be divided. Its recovery and unity are in Turkey’s own national interest, as Syrian stability will reflect positively on relations with Turkey, he pointed out.
He concluded by reiterating Turkey’s commitment to facilitating the voluntary return of Syrians.