In a comprehensive diplomatic meeting that underscored the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan engaged in a two-hour discussion in Ankara, revealing a multifaceted approach to addressing the ongoing Syrian humanitarian crisis and regional challenges.
The meeting, which included Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, centered on Turkey’s critical role in managing the massive Syrian refugee population and potential strategies for regional stabilization. Von der Leyen’s most significant announcement was the EU’s commitment to provide an additional €1 billion in support for 2024, bringing the total EU financial assistance to Turkey to over €11 billion since 2011.
President Erdoğan presented a stark assessment of the Syrian situation, emphasizing the devastating impact of the 13-year conflict. “The Baath regime has left behind a massive destruction,” he stated, “Syria is exhausted, and it’s impossible for the Syrian people to overcome this heavy burden alone.” He criticized the international community for its insufficient support during the prolonged humanitarian crisis.
Von der Leyen acknowledged Turkey’s pivotal position, describing the country as a “key partner in migration management.” She outlined several critical diplomatic initiatives, including:
- Returning the EU’s top-level diplomat to Damascus
- Continuing efforts to help Syria recover
- Addressing Turkey’s legitimate security concerns
- Ensuring voluntary refugee returns
The discussion revealed a nuanced diplomatic approach to Syria’s future. Both leaders expressed support for Syria’s territorial integrity and the establishment of a participatory governance model. Von der Leyen noted that while the potential fall of the Assad regime gives Syrians hope, the lack of predictability necessitates carefully managed return processes.
Erdoğan highlighted Turkey’s unique role in the region, claiming it as the only country that has defeated both ISIS and PKK-affiliated groups in the field. He emphasized Turkey’s continued commitment to supporting Syrian “brothers” and maintaining regional stability.
Beyond the Syrian crisis, the meeting touched on broader regional issues, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Erdoğan urged European leaders to pressure the Netanyahu government to stop its actions, pointing out that nearly 50,000 Palestinians killed are primarily women, children, and elderly.
The diplomatic engagement also reaffirmed the strategic importance of EU-Turkey relations. Von der Leyen, who made Ankara her first visit in her second term, expressed interest in updating the Customs Union and strengthening economic ties.
A significant point of discussion was the management of refugee flows. Turkey currently hosts approximately 3.6 million registered Syrian refugees, making it the world’s largest refugee-hosting country. The additional €1 billion in EU support is aimed at helping Turkey manage this enormous humanitarian challenge and prevent large-scale migration to European countries.
Von der Leyen explicitly acknowledged the need to combat human trafficking and manage border controls, highlighting the collaborative approach needed to address these complex challenges.
The meeting also signaled a potential diplomatic reset, with discussions about potential engagement with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTŞ) and efforts to create more stable conditions for potential refugee returns.
