Turkey advocates for diversity and equality for all in a post-Assad Syria

In Doha, Qatar, Turkish ‌Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized⁢ the importance of ensuring that the‌ opposition’s control in Syria does not endanger neighboring countries. ‌He highlighted the necessity⁣ of assistance in rebuilding the war-torn nation.

Addressing reporters at the Doha Forum following‍ the opposition’s capture of Damascus and ousting ⁣of President Bashar al-Assad, Fidan stressed⁤ the need for ‍equal treatment of‌ all minorities in Syria.

He emphasized unity and reconstruction as key priorities ‍for Syria moving forward, urging inclusivity and ⁢rejecting any ‌desires for retaliation.

Fidan also urged the Syrian opposition to reassure‌ neighboring nations that ⁣a new Syria would not pose‌ a threat but rather address existing challenges and eliminate ⁢risks.

People stand atop ⁤a toppled statue of Syria’s late ⁣President ⁢Hafez al-Assad in Damascus on December 8, ⁤2024 [Louai Beshara/AFP]

The conflict in Syria began as a peaceful uprising against al-Assad‌ but escalated into a devastating ‌war involving various ⁤external‍ actors, resulting in⁢ immense casualties and displacement.

The swift capture of Damascus by‍ opposition forces marked a significant turning point after seizing strategic cities during their offensive last month.

Citizens across Syria rejoiced at al-Assad’s downfall, although his current whereabouts remain unknown. Fidan urged caution ⁣from ‌all involved parties‌ to prevent further destabilization in the region.

When asked about‍ al-Assad’s location, Fidan refrained from speculation but criticized his failure to reconcile⁣ with ⁣Syrians since 2016. He called for prudence and calm from ⁤both internal and external⁢ stakeholders to navigate this critical‍ juncture effectively.

This article was sourced from www.aljazeera.com