Turkish and British officials held discussions in Ankara on Monday regarding Syria’s future, focusing on security, sanctions, and economic development, according to Turkish diplomatic sources.
The meeting was led by Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yılmaz and Hamish Falconer, the United Kingdom’s Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
During the discussions, Yılmaz provided Türkiye’s assessment of the security, humanitarian, and economic conditions in Syria. He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to addressing the crisis and reiterated the need to support national reconciliation efforts and central governance.
The talks also covered the topic of counterterrorism, with Yılmaz stating that the Syrian administration has demonstrated a commitment to combating terrorism and highlighting the significance of international support in this regard.
Economic reconstruction was another key focus of the meeting. Officials discussed the potential lifting of sanctions to facilitate financial flows into Syria. According to diplomatic sources, Türkiye advocated for the unconditional removal of sanctions to aid Syria’s economic recovery.
The United Kingdom previously announced plans to modify its sanctions regime following recent political changes in Syria. However, British officials have stated that asset freezes and travel bans on former government officials will remain in place.
Syria’s interim government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, has identified economic recovery as a priority. The United Nations has reported that a significant portion of the Syrian population continues to experience economic hardship. Last month, Syria’s interim finance minister announced a 400% increase in public sector wages, citing regional aid as a source of funding.
The issue of sanctions has been a recurring topic in Türkiye’s diplomatic engagements with Western nations. Ankara has emphasized the potential impact of easing economic restrictions on Syria’s stability and reconstruction.
Türkiye and the United Kingdom agreed to continue discussions on Syria and other regional matters in future diplomatic engagements.
The meeting follows political changes in Syria, including the transition from the previous administration in December. Türkiye has expressed support for diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring stability in Syria and the broader region.
Turkish officials have also underscored the importance of counterterrorism cooperation, particularly in addressing security concerns related to various armed groups operating in Syria. Türkiye has stated that it seeks to assist in the development of state institutions and a new constitutional framework as part of broader efforts to promote stability in the region.
Get the latest supply chain logistics news updates at The Supply Chain Report. Visit ADAMftd.com for free tools related to international trade.
#Ankara #London #SyriaCrisis #Geopolitics #Sanctions #Diplomacy #MiddleEast
