Turkish parliament speaker emphasizes Syria’s territorial integrity is “non-negotiable”

2026-02-04 - 05:35

Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş declared on Tuesday that Syria’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty are “non-negotiable” and stressed that a democratic, inclusive political system would serve as “the region’s insurance.” In a statement shared on social media, Kurtulmuş said Türkiye closely follows and appreciates steps taken in Syria’s ongoing integration process. Support for Agreements and Integration Kurtulmuş emphasized that full adherence to the March 10, 2025 memorandum and the January 30 agreement between the Syrian government and the YPG/SDF terrorist organization is essential for achieving lasting peace and regional stability. He described the aim of gradual military and administrative integration as “a major opportunity” that could strengthen Syria’s state capacity and pave the way for a new security architecture. Inclusive Vision for Syria’s Future The speaker warned against exclusion based on identity or belief, asserting that every Syrian citizen must have an “honorable and secure” place in the political system. “Syria belongs to Syrians,” he stated, cautioning that fragmentation and proxy structures would not bring peace. Kurtulmuş reiterated Türkiye’s readiness to support Syria’s unity, reconstruction, institution‐building, border security, and counterterrorism efforts.