In a significant diplomatic exchange, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held a phone conversation with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to address the evolving situation in Syria. The discussion, which took place on December 28, underscored the shared interests between the United States and Turkey regarding the ongoing conflict in Syria and the broader regional security landscape.
According to a statement from the U.S. State Department, the two leaders focused their conversation on the pressing need for a political resolution to the Syrian crisis that is led and owned by the Syrian people themselves. Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting a political process that prioritizes human rights, democratic principles, and the creation of an inclusive and representative government for Syria. This commitment reflects the longstanding position of the U.S. in advocating for a peaceful, stable Syria that respects the rights of all its citizens, including minorities and marginalized groups.
The Secretary also emphasized that any solution to the conflict must ensure that Syria’s future government is one that reflects the will of the people, fostering a sense of inclusivity and accountability. “Syria’s future must be determined by its own people, free from outside interference and in alignment with universal human rights standards,” Blinken noted during the call.
The conversation also touched upon the critical issue of terrorism, which continues to pose a significant threat to both Turkish and Syrian security. Secretary Blinken and Minister Fidan reiterated their shared objective of preventing terrorist organizations from exploiting the ongoing instability in Syria to undermine the security of both countries. They discussed strategies for enhanced cooperation to combat the regional threat posed by groups such as ISIS and others operating within Syria’s borders.
With the conflict in Syria entering its thirteenth year, the need for a comprehensive and sustainable solution remains urgent. Turkey, which shares a long border with Syria, has been deeply involved in the humanitarian and security ramifications of the war, hosting millions of Syrian refugees and facing threats from terrorist groups operating within Syria.
The call between Blinken and Fidan also reflects the ongoing cooperation between the United States and Turkey in addressing broader regional challenges. The two nations have long been strategic allies within NATO, and this dialogue further reinforces the importance of their partnership in tackling complex issues such as terrorism, instability, and the humanitarian crisis in Syria.
As the situation in Syria continues to evolve, both the U.S. and Turkey are expected to remain key players in shaping the political and security dynamics in the region. The continued engagement between U.S. and Turkish leadership highlights the shared commitment to achieving a stable and peaceful resolution to the Syrian conflict, one that upholds the dignity and rights of its people while ensuring regional security.
This latest discussion is part of a broader effort by the United States to engage with international partners on Syria, particularly as the situation in the country remains fluid and fraught with challenges. The United States has consistently pushed for a political solution to the Syrian conflict that includes all relevant stakeholders, including opposition groups, the Syrian government, and international actors committed to peace.