Al-Shaibani, Fidan discuss economic, security cooperation

Syrian Transitional Government Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani and his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan emphasized, during a joint press conference in Ankara, the importance of strengthening economic and security cooperation between the two countries, supporting stability in Syria and the region, and developing regional connectivity projects.

Al-Shaibani said the talks addressed accelerating the activation of the “Four Seas Committee” and the railway connectivity project linking Syria, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, in addition to reactivating economic and trade agreements. He noted that the recent step between the two countries’ central banks paves the way for a new phase of cooperation.

He also affirmed Syria’s condemnation of any attacks on Gulf countries, calling for enhanced security coordination and border control. He stressed that extending state authority and ending weapons outside the legal framework are the foundation for stability and partnership with Turkey, while supporting efforts led by Iraq and Lebanon to strengthen regional stability.

Al-Shaibani also confirmed the continuation of diplomatic efforts to halt Israeli attacks on southern Syria and condemned any violation of Syrian territory and sovereignty.

For his part, Fidan reaffirmed Turkey’s continued support for Syria, the development of economic cooperation, increasing trade volume, expanding the number of border crossings, and supporting banking, transportation infrastructure, and reconstruction projects. He added that Turkey is working with Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Syria to develop regional connectivity projects.

Fidan stressed the need to stop Israeli attacks on Syria and respect its territorial integrity and sovereignty.