Under Secretary of State John Bass is set to travel to Ankara on January 9-10, 2025, where he will hold high-level discussions with senior Turkish government officials. The visit is primarily focused on the ongoing crisis in Syria, as well as broader regional stability and security concerns.
During his stay, Under Secretary Bass will continue to underscore the importance of a peaceful, inclusive, and Syrian-led political transition. In line with the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2254, the United States remains committed to finding a political solution to the Syrian conflict, one that is owned by the Syrian people and not imposed externally. These discussions are expected to be a continuation of the U.S. commitment to supporting efforts for a negotiated resolution to the Syrian civil war.
Key topics of conversation will also include the enduring defeat of ISIS, the prevention of Syria being used as a base for terrorism, and how to maintain regional stability in the face of ongoing instability. The U.S. remains focused on preventing terrorist organizations from exploiting Syria’s fractured political landscape.
This trip marks an important moment for the United States to reaffirm its partnership with Türkiye and to reinforce the critical need for cooperation in addressing shared security challenges. Bass’s visit will be a crucial step in further aligning efforts to stabilize Syria and confront threats that pose a danger to the region and beyond.