On Friday, December 20, 2024, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visited Ankara to discuss key issues surrounding Syria and regional stability. Her first official meeting in the Turkish capital was with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. During their discussions, Baerbock and Fidan focused on the ongoing conflict in Syria, emphasizing the importance of securing Syria’s territorial integrity and political unity.
Turkey’s Position on Syria’s Kurdish Groups
Fidan, in his conversation with Baerbock, reiterated Turkey’s firm stance on Syria’s Kurdish groups, specifically the YPG/PKK formations. He stressed that these groups must disarm and disband, a position that aligns with Turkey’s long-standing policy towards the Syrian Kurds. Fidan also emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to Syria’s security, highlighting that the country’s stability should not come at the expense of its territorial integrity.
Baerbock, in response, expressed her agreement with Turkey’s request for the disarmament of these Kurdish groups, aligning with the Turkish perspective that they must be reintegrated into Syria’s broader security structure. She also noted that the safety of the Kurdish population in Syria is crucial for the overall security and stability of the country.
Baerbock’s Meeting with MIT Chief İbrahim Kalın
Baerbock’s visit also included a private discussion with İbrahim Kalın, the head of Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT). While the specifics of their meeting were not disclosed, it is understood that they focused on recent developments in Syria and regional security issues. This meeting set the stage for her subsequent talks with Fidan, where both parties aimed to align their approaches to the conflict in Syria.
Disarming Kurdish Forces: A Key Focus
The main focus of the Baerbock-Fidan talks was Syria’s Kurdish groups. Fidan underscored the necessity for the YPG/PKK formations to disarm and dissolve, stressing that the stability of Syria is dependent on the cessation of activities by militant Kurdish factions. Baerbock voiced her support for Turkey’s position, calling for the integration of disarmed Kurdish groups into Syria’s national security framework.
Gazze and Ukraine: Addressing Regional Concerns
In addition to discussions on Syria, Baerbock and Fidan addressed other pressing regional issues. Fidan condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as genocide and called for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian aid. The two also discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with Fidan reaffirming Turkey’s commitment to supporting negotiations and seeking a lasting peace.
Baerbock’s Call for International Cooperation on Syria
Before departing for Ankara, Baerbock stressed the importance of international cooperation in ensuring Syria’s stability. She noted that the international community must act collectively and in alignment with common objectives to support Syria’s transition to peace. She also referred to her eight-point plan for Syria, which includes provisions for free elections and the protection of Syria from foreign intervention.
Meeting with Syrian Refugees in Turkey
As part of her visit, Baerbock met with Syrian refugees living in Turkey. She listened to their personal stories and concerns, taking note of their demands for greater support and protection. Tobias Lindner, Germany’s newly appointed Special Coordinator for Syria, accompanied Baerbock during this visit. Lindner reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to increasing its presence in Syria and strengthening international cooperation on human rights and minority protections.
Conclusion: A Step Toward a Unified Syria
Baerbock’s visit to Ankara highlighted the complex challenges in Syria and the region. Through her talks with Turkish officials, including Foreign Minister Fidan and MIT Head Kalın, it is clear that both Germany and Turkey are aligned on many key issues regarding Syria’s future. The path to peace and stability in Syria remains uncertain, but Baerbock’s visit underscores the importance of a unified international approach to addressing the country’s political and security challenges.
