Turkish and British officials are set to convene in Ankara on Monday to discuss the future of Syria, focusing on security, sanctions, and economic development, according to a source from the Turkish foreign ministry on Sunday.
As a NATO member, Turkey has been a significant supporter of the rebels opposing Bashar al-Assad for many years and has developed strong relations with the new administration in Damascus following Assad’s removal last year. Turkey has committed to assisting in Syria’s reconstruction and has offered to train and equip its security forces.
Last month, Britain announced plans to modify its sanctions regime concerning Syria after Assad’s departure, while ensuring that asset freezes and travel bans on former government officials remain enforced.
The Turkish source, who requested anonymity, indicated that the discussions on Monday will be led by Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz and British junior Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer.
Yilmaz is expected to advocate for the unconditional lifting of sanctions on Syria to facilitate reconstruction and economic growth. He will also highlight the necessity for international support for the Syrian administration’s efforts toward national reconciliation within a unified government and will urge action against Israel’s activities that threaten Syria’s sovereignty.
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According to a Reuters report from Friday, Israel is reportedly lobbying the United States to maintain Syria’s weakened and decentralized state, including allowing Russia to retain its military bases there to counter Turkey’s increasing influence in the region.
On Sunday, Turkish Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu announced that Turkey has completed the initial phase of repairs and maintenance at Damascus airport, including the installation of new equipment, as part of its efforts to aid in the reconstruction of this vital transport hub.
