A key Syrian opposition leader has indicated that a meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is “possible,” despite various political hurdles. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions about the normalization of relations between Ankara and Damascus, which have been strained since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011.
Sources familiar with the diplomatic landscape suggest that the anticipated meeting may take place in Moscow, with Russian President Vladimir Putin expected to mediate the talks. The discussions are reportedly focused on key issues such as trade, security, and the potential withdrawal of Turkish forces from northern Syria. While Erdoğan has expressed a willingness to discuss these topics, he emphasized that the withdrawal of Turkish troops would not be a precondition for dialogue but rather a subject for future negotiations.
Erdoğan’s recent remarks in parliament highlighted his openness to dialogue with Assad, stating, “There is no resentment or bitterness in politics. Sooner or later, we will take steps.” This sentiment reflects Erdoğan’s broader strategy to address domestic concerns, particularly regarding the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland and combating threats from Kurdish groups operating in Syria.
The proposed meeting has garnered attention not only for its potential impact on bilateral relations but also for its implications within the region. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani has expressed interest in hosting the talks in Baghdad, positioning Iraq as a mediator in this complex diplomatic scenario. This move could enhance Iraq’s role in regional politics while also addressing its own domestic challenges ahead of upcoming elections.
However, challenges remain. Assad’s government has signalled that any meaningful dialogue would require addressing its demands for the withdrawal of Turkish forces and an end to Turkish support for opposition factions within Syria. These demands align closely with Iranian interests, as Tehran seeks to maintain influence over Damascus while countering Turkish presence in the region.
As negotiations progress, both leaders are under pressure from their respective constituencies. Erdoğan faces criticism from opposition parties advocating for a more assertive stance on Syria, while Assad aims to solidify his position domestically amid ongoing economic difficulties and international isolation. While the possibility of an Erdoğan-Assad meeting appears to be on the horizon, substantial hurdles remain. The outcomes of these discussions could reshape not only Turkish-Syrian relations but also influence broader geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.
