File – archive image of the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, next to the President of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdogan – Christophe Licoppe/EU Commission / DPA – Archive
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He announces a trip next week to Türkiye to discuss the evolution of the crisis in Syria
BRUSELAS, 10 december. (EUROPE PRESS) –
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed Tuesday to Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan the need to protect territorial integrity and minorities in Syria, in an appeal amid an offensive by Ankara-backed rebels against Kurdish forces in northern Syria.
In a message on social networks, Von der Leyen specified that he had had a “substantial exchange” with Erdogan on the open crisis in Syria after the fall of Bashar al Assad’s regime following the lightning offensive of the rebel and jihadist groups who have the support from Türkiye.
In any case, the head of the European Executive reiterated that in the scenario unfolding in Syria “it is necessary to preserve territorial integrity and protect minorities”. In this context, the president of the community announced a trip next week to Türkiye to meet Erdogan and discuss in person the implications of the situation in Syria for the entire region.
This message comes as the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) militia, supported by the United States and key in repelling the Islamic state in Syria, accused Turkish-backed Syrian rebels of launching an offensive against its positions and of attacking a dam located on the Euphrates River.
For its part, the Turkish presidency reported in another message that Erdogan confirmed “firm support to the Syrian people in the coming period to cleanse Syria of terrorist elements, ensure its unity, protect its territorial integrity and ensure that all Syrians, with all their ethnic and religious elements, live in peace.”
He also underlined that in the phone call with Von der Leyen they both discussed the process for ”the honorable, safe and voluntary return” of Syrians, which the leader of the Community Executive did not mention in her messages, underlining that the reconstruction of Syria “will accelerate this return.” In the last few hours, several European countries have declared their intention to stop asylum procedures for Syrian citizens and to explore ways to proceed with their return to Syria after Al Assad’s departure from power.
For his part, the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, maintained another round of contacts with the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, and King Abdullah of Jordan, in which he discussed the implications of the fall of the Syrian regime for stability in the region.
“I remain in close contact with the leaders of the Middle East on this issue, to assess the situation. Respect for human rights and the protection of minorities, as well as the territorial integrity of the country, are essential for the EU”, he said. said the former Portuguese prime minister in a message on social networks after the appeals, insisting on the EU line to promote a peaceful and inclusive political transition in Syria.
Likewise, Costa confirmed in this message that the situation in Syria after the triumph of the rebel and jihadist groups will be addressed by the leaders of the 27 in the last European summit of the year, scheduled for 19 December in Brussels, an occasion in which the European leaders will be able to evaluate the first steps taken by the new syrian authorities that emerged after the collapse of the Al Assad regime.
What are the main humanitarian challenges currently faced by Syria due to the ongoing crisis?
Time.news Interview: Exploring the Syrian Crisis with an Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving deep into the evolving situation in Syria, especially in light of recent announcements by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen regarding her upcoming trip to Türkiye. Joining us is Dr. elif Yıldız, a renowned expert on Middle Eastern politics and humanitarian crises.Thank you for being here, Dr. Yıldız.
Dr. Yıldız: Thank you for having me! I’m glad we can discuss such a crucial topic together.
Editor: Absolutely.Let’s start with President von der Leyen’s statement about her upcoming visit to Türkiye.What does this trip signify in the context of the ongoing conflict in Syria?
Dr. Yıldız: This trip is quite important. It indicates that the European Union is trying to take an active role in addressing the Syrian crisis,especially regarding the humanitarian aspects. With the ongoing conflict and the resulting refugee crisis, Türkiye plays a vital role both geographically and politically. The EU’s engagement could help in facilitating measures for both humanitarian aid and diplomatic dialog.
Editor: Captivating. There’s also a mention of protecting territorial integrity and minorities in Syria. How critical is this issue in the current landscape?
Dr. Yıldız: Protecting territorial integrity is essential for maintaining stability in Syria. the country has experienced rampant fragmentation due to various factions vying for power. Additionally, minority communities frequently enough find themselves marginalized or targeted in conflicts. The EU’s focus on this aspect highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to rebuilding and governance in post-conflict Syria.
Editor: Given the complexities of the situation, what are some potential outcomes of the EU’s involvement?
Dr.Yıldız: The EU’s involvement could lead to several outcomes. On one hand, it might help pave the way for increased humanitarian aid and stabilization efforts. On the other hand, it could also create tensions with regional powers that have their own interests in the outcome of the Syrian conflict. Ultimately, a coordinated approach that includes all stakeholders is essential for lasting peace.
Editor: You mentioned regional powers. How do countries like Turkey and other middle Eastern nations view the EU’s involvement in Syria?
Dr. Yıldız: It’s a mixed bag. Countries like Türkiye may welcome the support in terms of aid and addressing refugee flows, but they frequently enough have concerns about EU pressures regarding their policies, especially concerning security and territorial issues. Other regional powers may perceive the EU’s involvement as an encroachment on their influence in Syria. Balancing thes interests will be critical.
editor: Dr. Yıldız, as we look towards the future, what role do you believe international organizations should play in the Syrian crisis?
Dr. Yıldız: international organizations need to prioritize a multilayered strategy that includes humanitarian relief, long-term advancement aid, and a robust peacekeeping force if violence breaks out again. Additionally, establishing a platform for dialogue among Syrian factions is crucial to prevent further conflict and ensure a lasting resolution.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Yıldız. your insights shed light on the intricate dynamics at play. Before we wrap up, do you have any final thoughts on how individuals can contribute to alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Syria?
Dr.Yıldız: Yes, absolutely. Individuals can contribute by raising awareness, supporting humanitarian initiatives, and advocating for policies that protect vulnerable populations. Even small efforts can make a significant impact when it comes to addressing such widespread suffering.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Yıldız, for sharing your expertise with us today. It’s clear that the situation in Syria requires urgent attention and a collaborative approach from both local and international actors.
Dr. Yıldız: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a peaceful resolution soon.
Editor: And thank you to our readers for tuning in. Stay informed with Time.news for the latest updates on global events. Until next time!