Mr. President,

We thank ASG Khiari and Director Wosornu for their comprehensive briefings.

The past weeks have marked the most consequential shift on the ground in Syria since the revolution. The situation has changed significantly following recent clashes in Aleppo, Raqqa, and Deir ez-Zor.

Syrian people and the Government have restored control over substantial parts of their territory. These areas had been unlawfully seized by those who exploited years of prolonged instability and subjected civilians to grave abuses.

Despite provocations by terrorist elements in the north-east, Syrian army acted within the chain of command. It demonstrated discipline and avoided actions that could have harmed civilians.

By prioritizing negotiation, the Syrian Government resolved the situation with minimal damage. We consider these developments as important gains for lasting peace, calm, and stability in Syria.

In this context, I warmly congratulate the Syrian Government, the Syrian army, and the brotherly Syrian people.

I also convey our condolences for those who lost their lives.

Mr. President,

Recent developments have also demonstrated the support the Syrian Government enjoys among its people, as well as the capacities it has developed. Various segments of Syrian society have made it clear that they will no longer tolerate the so-called “SDF.” Centrifugal and divisive projects targeting Syria’s unity have no future.

Reports of destruction of civilian infrastructure and mass killings of civilians by the remnants of these terrorist elements, including in Hasakah province, are deeply alarming. At the same time, these events reflect the true nature of this terrorist organization, which now has become more evident.

The events of the past two weeks, and the violations committed by this terrorist organization, confirmed the validity of Türkiye’s long-standing position:

The so-called “SDF” was neither Syrian, nor democratic, nor a force. It was an extension of PKK/YPG terrorists.

Mr. President,

Türkiye fully supports the Syrian State’s efforts to build a united, sovereign, and independent Syria, in which all ethnic origins, beliefs, and sects coexist side by side.

Through a Presidential Decree to eliminate the problems faced by Syrian Kurds during the Assad Regime in various areas, including language and citizenship, the Syrian government has once again confirmed that Kurds are equal and honourable citizens of Syria.

As Türkiye, we will continue to support the Government’s efforts to build inclusive governance structures that reflect the country’s diversity.

We hope that the ceasefire and full integration agreement announced by President Sharaa will make an immediate and meaningful contribution to security and stability. This effort must rest on Syria’s territorial integrity and unity.

The PKK/YPG should refrain from any attempt to undermine the implementation of this agreement. The handover of border crossings and detention centers and camps to the Syrian Government must proceed smoothly and without delay.

Current dynamics on the ground, together with genuine commitment to the agreement, can pave the way for real integration. The more the Syrian people unite around a single representative authority, the easier it will be to overcome remaining challenges. And from now on, Syria’s resources will be used for the benefit of all Syrian people.

Mr. President,

Images from the streets of Aleppo, Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, and other cities reflect the Syrian people’s deep longing for peace. After more than 13 years of suffering, immense loss, and sacrifice, Syrians are embracing hope once again. No one has the right to ignore this reality or to sabotage this climate of hope.

We will spare no effort to ensure the complete elimination of terrorist presence in Syria, in all its forms and manifestations and support the resolution and actions of the Syrian Government.

Thank you.