Syrian, Turkish, Russian defense ministers hold talks in Moscow

QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Russian and Turkish defense ministries said on Wednesday that Moscow’s, Ankara’s and Damascus’ defense ministers met in the Russian capital Moscow, marking the first announced official meeting between Turkey and Syria since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011.

The talks revolved around the Syrian crisis, the refugee problem  in Turkey and efforts to combat terrorist present on Syrian territory, both ministries said.

The Turkish defense ministry’s statement said the heads of the  Turkish, Syrian and Russian intelligence were also present at the meeting.

The Syrian state-run SANA agency said that “The three Ministers affirmed the need for the continuation of joint dialogue to realize stability in Syria and the region.”

Turkey and Syria have been foes for the last 11 years, after Ankara started backing the Syrian opposition and its armed factions which have attempted to overthrow the Syrian government.