Official announcements from the Syrian government or media coverage of the visit

Turkey Engages with Ahmed al-Sharaa, Promises Support Post-Assad Ouster

Dec 25, 2024, 09:51 AM

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Turkey is in close dialogue with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of Syria, and that visits to Syria will increase. Erdogan emphasized Turkey's stance on the Syrian crisis, stating that Turkey has been on the right side of history since the crisis began. He highlighted Turkey's policy of compassion and support for the Syrian people, promising continued assistance to those who wish to return to Syria without forcing anyone to leave. Erdogan also mentioned that Turkey will support Syria's new administration as the country rebuilds following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad, marking a new page in Syria after 61 years of oppression under the Ba'ath regime. He condemned the Assad regime's actions, noting that Assad fled Syria, and vowed to combat all terrorist organizations exploiting the situation in Syria.