President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has sent a message to Syria’s Kurds, saying that Türkiye is the guarantee for their security, peace and well-being. This comes at a time when Ankara is pressing to resolve the long-running issue of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and advance domestic peace.
His remarks were also interpreted as a signal to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), dominated by the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG), which Ankara considers the Syrian extension of the PKK. The SDF has expressed frustration over Damascus’s failure to implement an integration agreement signed in March.
Speaking in the eastern province of Mus during commemorations of the 954th anniversary of the historic Battle of Manzikert, the Turkish president highlighted the government’s progress toward building what he described as a Türkiye free of terrorism, dismantling barriers of discord within society.
The country has launched a process to disarm the PKK, beginning with talks involving its imprisoned founder Abdullah Ocalan. These efforts include the creation of a parliamentary committee, “National Solidarity, Brotherhood, and Democracy,” tasked with drafting legislation to oversee disarmament and promote unity between Turks and Kurds.
Erdogan underlined that Türkiye supports lasting peace across the region and favors resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. He added that the country also serves as a safe harbor for its neighbors facing crises.
Trade Relations in Focus
In parallel, Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat announced plans to lead a major business delegation to Syria to attend the Damascus International Fair on Wednesday. He described the event as an opportunity to boost economic ties, calling it a gateway for deepening cooperation between the two countries.
The 62nd edition of the fair runs from August 27 to September 5, marking its return after the collapse of the Assad government last December. Bolat noted that the fair is held with the support of Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade and southeastern export unions, allowing Turkish businesses to secure a stronger presence in the Syrian market.
He confirmed that Ankara and Damascus are preparing steps to expand reciprocal trade liberalization, guided by mutual benefit. A joint customs committee, working groups, and expertise-sharing programs are also under discussion, supported by a statement of intent sent to Syrian authorities.
