Foreign Minister Fidan: I believe PKK's dissolution decision will be very beneficial for our future

Minister Fidan spoke about the decision of the terrorist organization PKK to disband and lay down its arms, saying, "If this decision is implemented sincerely and in a way that resolves other concerns, I believe it will be a very beneficial decision for our future.".

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan made these comments at a joint press conference following the Turkey-Jordan-Syria Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, alongside Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi and Syrian Foreign Minister Assad Hasan Shaybani.

Responding to a question about the PKK's decision to disband and lay down arms, Fidan said:

"I believe this is a historic and important decision, especially in terms of bringing lasting peace and stability to our region. Of course, there are practical steps to be taken following this decision, and we will closely monitor them. Expanding the democracy, freedom, prosperity, and security that we have developed in Turkey over the last 20 years and positively influencing the other countries and peoples in our region is our greatest wish. I think if this decision is implemented sincerely and in a way that eliminates other concerns, it will truly be a very positive decision for our future, for our citizens, and for everyone. Minister (Devlet) Bahçeli made a historic call on this issue, and President Erdoğan showed a strong will. The organization is now giving a positive response. There is the work presented by the DEM. There are colleagues who contributed. Of course, in this historic responsibility, we, as the children of this country, are showing that we can solve our own problems with our own wisdom, common sense, intelligence, and will."

"We fully support Syria in every field"

Minister Fidan stated that they discussed the current problems in Syria, the problems facing the region and what kind of solutions could be brought and said that they had a comprehensive meeting.

Pointing out that very intensive regional and international diplomatic efforts have continued since the fall of the Baathist regime in Syria on December 8, 2024, Fidan said, "As countries in the region, as Syria's neighbors, we are in search of how we can solve the existing problems together with a sense of regional ownership. We fully support Syria in every field."

Pointing out that Syria faces a number of current problems, Fidan said:

"When we briefly summarize the problems Syria is facing right now, there is the Israeli expansionism. This has really reached a dimension that threatens the stability, security and future of Syria. As countries in the region, we have a common opinion that this expansionism, this provocation must end as soon as possible."

Pointing out that it is a serious priority that terrorist organizations do not take advantage of the situation in Syria, Fidan said, "This is also extremely important for our regional security. Turkey in the north and Syria in the south, we closely follow these issues. I would like to underline once again that the fight against DAESH is especially important in this regard. There is a five-party meeting that we have been conducting for some time on this issue. Today, we came together again as three countries of this group of five."

"We also support all efforts in this regard"

Pointing out that the YPG's occupation of one-third of Syria's territory is also a threat that Syria faces, Fidan continued as follows:

"In addition to the security problems, we are also continuing our negotiations and work on lifting some of the international diplomatic sanctions and overcoming the economic problems Syria is facing. Where are we in terms of lifting the sanctions imposed by the European Union and the United States on the Assad regime? What did our efforts produce? We had the opportunity to evaluate this."

Fidan stated that Syrian Foreign Minister Shaybani also explained the work of the newly established government in other fields in the country and said, "Especially the composition of the new parliament to be established, the constitutional works afterwards, and then the work carried out by the current government and the existing ministries, which, as you know, the new government had taken up many issues from scratch and is gradually recovering itself more and more. We support all efforts in this regard."

Stating that there are also issues that have an indirect impact on Syria, Fidan said, "The issue in Gaza, which we closely follow in the region, especially with Jordan, was a serious agenda item for us. What can we do to end the ongoing human tragedy in Gaza as soon as possible? We shared our views on this issue again. The valuable views of my esteemed brother Ayman al-Safedi on this issue are really valuable for me."

"Turkey, with all its institutions, is trying to play its part in this issue"

Fidan also answered a question about the decision of Russia and Ukraine to meet again in Istanbul on May 15 and Turkey's contribution to the process.

Minister Fidan pointed out that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has consistently called for a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine War and continued as follows:

"Over the last few months, we have seen that this call has been embraced by Russians, Ukrainians, Europeans, and Americans alike. This is a positive development. Now, discussions are taking place on how this desire will be realized — in what modality and in what sequence. There are ongoing efforts to reach reconciliation. Turkey is trying to fulfill its role in this matter with all its institutions, especially through Mr. President."

Fidan stated that President Erdoğan has been engaging in diplomacy and maintaining telephone communication with leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the matter:

"All parties know that we are ready to make all kinds of contributions in this regard, both as a facilitator and as a host. Mr. Putin made an offer in this direction. Then Mr. Trump showed an initiative on this matter. Later, Mr. Zelensky made another proposal. The situation is gradually evolving and gaining momentum. Of course, it is extremely significant that Turkey is at the center of all these efforts."

Fidan emphasized that Turkey's efforts are "an indication of President Erdoğan's strong global leadership and diplomatic influence" and continued:

"This is an important asset for Turkey. However, as I have said before, what is even more important for us is ensuring peace and stability in our region. Just as we are working for stability in Syria, in Iraq, and seeking a peaceful resolution to the PKK issue, and just as we are working for peace in Gaza, we are also striving for peaceful solutions to the problems in the Black Sea, the Balkans, and the Aegean. We are working tirelessly."

Stating that he believes the parties will eventually come together around a compromise, Fidan added:

"The Ukrainians are inclined towards a 'ceasefire first, then negotiations' approach; the Russians prefer 'negotiations first, then a ceasefire.' The matter is currently at an impasse. There is a public perception that both sides are monitoring. Both sides are trying to maintain U.S. support — which is to be expected. These developments are part of the natural flow of the process. But our stance is clear: we call on the parties to come together as soon as possible and initiate a ceasefire."

"Gaza has become the graveyard of international law"

"What we are witnessing in Gaza is a humanitarian catastrophe by any measure. Gaza has become the graveyard of international law," said Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi, regarding the situation under Israeli blockade and attacks.

Safadi stated that Israel has responded to the Arab world's peace proposals by continuing its aggression.
He emphasized that Israel refuses to abide by the ceasefire agreement signed with Lebanon and continues to occupy certain areas, stressing that Israel must be compelled to respect international law.

"We support security and stability and congratulate our brotherly country Turkey on the PKK’s decision to dissolve itself," Safadi added.

Syrian Foreign Minister Shaybani
Syrian Foreign Minister Assad Hassan Shaybani spoke at a press conference following the meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi in Ankara.

Noting that they held a constructive and productive meeting in Ankara, Minister Shaybani said:

"This step represents an important turning point not only for Turkey's internal security but also for the overall stability of our region."

"We are intensifying our cooperation to combat cross-border threats, monitor the movement of armed groups, and prevent the infiltration of radical elements into our shared territory. Security is not just a national concern; it is the foundation of reconstruction, reconciliation, and regional trust."

Shaybani emphasized that the presence of such structures poses a threat to the security of their countries and is an obstacle to peace:

"We will not allow foreign-backed militias or illegal elements to destabilize Syria."

Israeli incursions into Syrian territory
Calling on Israel to cease its attacks on Syrian territory, Shaybani underlined that Syria’s territorial integrity is non-negotiable and that Syria is an indivisible and sovereign state.

Shaybani continued: "Our borders are still continuously violated by Israeli attacks. These are not isolated incidents but systematic breaches of international law. These provocations risk igniting the entire region. Israeli airstrikes on Syrian territory frequently target civilian infrastructure and result in the deaths of innocent people. These attacks are not acts of self-defense but deliberate escalations aimed at destabilizing Syria and plunging the region back into conflict."

Noting that many parts of Syria, particularly the south, have been subjected to systematic Israeli airstrikes since December 8, 2024, Syrian Foreign Minister Assad Hassan Shaybani said:
"These attacks are provocative steps targeting regional stability. Syria responds to these threats with great calm and in alignment with its national interests."

Shaybani called for increased international pressure on Israel, stating:
"Israel’s attacks serve only chaos and instability. Syria is a unified state and reserves the right to defend itself whenever it deems necessary. Our people have made it clear that they stand behind their government in the face of these assaults."

Embassy to Open in Ankara

Highlighting cooperation with the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in sharing diplomatic expertise, Minister Shaybani announced:
"An embassy will be opened in Ankara, and a new consulate will be established in Gaziantep."

He also emphasized that Syria is working closely with all relevant Turkish institutions to ensure that Syrians residing in Turkey have access to public services, freedom of movement, and a dignified, secure life.

Integration Talks with the PKK/YPG

In response to a question about the integration process involving the PKK/YPG — the terrorist organization operating under the name SDF in Syria — Shaybani noted: "Damascus adopted the dialogue process as of December 8, 2024. The Syrian people have responded to these challenges with national determination. We do not accept any stalling or evasive attitudes in this process."

Underscoring the importance of implementation, he said:
"We hope the other side also commits sincerely to advancing this process. As a state, we must reactivate public institutions in these regions — particularly in northeastern Syria. This is essential not only for restoring state sovereignty but also to enable the return of millions of displaced Syrians to their homes."

In this context, Shaybani stressed that the PKK/YPG must also demonstrate “sincere intentions” and added:
"There must be a genuine will to establish peace and stability in the region. This approach applies not only to the northeast but also to southern Syria, such as the Suwayda province."

Fight Against Terrorism

Addressing the ongoing fight against terrorism, Shaybani said:
"The fight against terrorism — especially against DAESH — is a global responsibility. We have extensive experience combating this group and fully understand the threat it poses to Syria and neighboring countries."

He affirmed that Syria would continue its counterterrorism efforts across all areas and called on the international community for sincere cooperation against this common threat.

Statement Reiteration: Security and Stability

In his speech, Minister Shaybani reiterated the productive outcomes of the trilateral meeting in Ankara and said:
"This step represents a significant turning point not only for Turkey’s internal security but also for the broader stability of our region."

"We are strengthening our cooperation to counter cross-border threats, monitor the movement of armed groups, and prevent the infiltration of radical elements into our shared territory. Security is not merely a national issue — it is the foundation of reconstruction, reconciliation, and regional trust."

He continued:
"The existence of these armed structures threatens the security of our nations and poses a major obstacle to peace. We will not allow foreign-backed militias or illegal elements to destabilize Syria."

Israeli Incursions into Syrian Territory

Calling on Israel to halt its attacks, Shaybani underscored that Syria’s territorial integrity is non-negotiable, stating: "Syria is an indivisible, sovereign state."

He continued:"Our borders are continuously violated by Israeli airstrikes. These are not isolated incidents but systematic violations of international law. Such provocations risk igniting the entire region."

"Israeli airstrikes frequently target civilian infrastructure and result in the deaths of innocent people. These actions are not legitimate acts of self-defense — they are deliberate escalations aimed at destabilizing Syria and dragging the region back into a cycle of conflict."

Shaybani called for increased international pressure on Israel, saying, "Israel's attacks only serve chaos and instability. Syria is a united state and has the right to defend itself when it sees fit. Our people have made it clear that they stand behind their government against these attacks."

Embassy to open in Ankara

Stating that they will cooperate with the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in sharing experience in the diplomatic field, Syrian Foreign Minister Sheibani said that an embassy will be opened in Ankara and a new consulate will be opened in Gaziantep.

Minister Sheibani said that they are coordinating with all relevant Turkish institutions to ensure Syrians living in Turkey have access to services, freedom of movement and a dignified and safe life.

Integration talks with YPG/PKK

In response to a question about the integration process with the PKK/YPG, the terrorist organization that uses the name SDF in Syria, Shaybani said, "Damascus adopted the dialogue process from December 8, 2024. The Syrian people responded to the difficulties with a national will. We do not accept a stalling or evasive approach to this process."

Emphasizing that they attach great importance to the implementation of the process, Shaybani expressed the hope that the other side will also be committed to implementing this process seriously.

"As a state, we need to reactivate public institutions in these areas (in northeast Syria). This is necessary not only for the establishment of the state's sovereignty.... but also for the return of millions of displaced Syrians to their homes."

In this context, the PKK/YPG must also show "sincere intentions", Shaybani said, adding, "There must be a real will to establish peace and stability in the region. This approach applies not only to the northeast but also to southern Syria (Suwayda province)."

Fight against terrorism

Referring to the fight against terrorism, Shaybani said, "The fight against terrorism, especially against DAESH, is a global responsibility. We have a long experience in fighting this organization and we know very well how dangerous it is for Syria and neighboring countries."

Minister Shaybani emphasized that his country will continue its fight against terrorism in all fields and said that they expect sincere cooperation from the international community against this common threat.