Turkey's foreign minister has announced the reopening of the country's embassy in Syria's capital, Damascus, marking the end of a twelve-year diplomatic hiatus. The country suspended its diplomatic operations back in 2012 due to the deteriorated security conditions during the Syrian civil war, which resulted from protests against the regime of President Bashar Assad. Now, as the region sees significant changes, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has stated the embassy will become operational this Saturday, December 14, 2024.
Fidan confirmed the news during an interview broadcast live on NTV, indicating the departure of the new charge d'affaires Burhan Koroglu and his delegation to Syria. “It will be operational as of tomorrow,” Fidan said, emphasizing the importance of restoring diplomatic relations as conditions stabilize.
The reopening of the embassy reflects Turkey’s intent to play a pivotal role in the evolution of Syria following years of conflict. Fidan stated, “We want to see a terror-free Syria, where minorities are not mistreated. We want an inclusive government in Syria.” These remarks underline Turkey’s strategic goals which include promoting political stability, security, and the protection of various ethnic and religious minorities affected by the long-standing war.
Since the 2011 outbreak of the Syrian civil war, Turkey has taken considerable steps to address concerns about security along its borders, especially against groups it labels as terrorist entities. Among these is the People's Protection Units (YPG), which has garnered support from the United States as part of the coalition combating ISIS. Turkey, seeing the YPG as closely tied to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has waged insurgency against the Turkish government for decades, has made eliminating the YPG one of its strategic goals.
Fidan reiterated the point about the YPG's presence and influence saying, “The number of Syrians in Turkey returning to their country will gradually increase as Syria stabilizes.” This shows Turkey’s plan not only focuses on the immediate diplomatic restoration but also on longer-term socio-political dynamics where Turkish officials foresee a gradual repatriation of Syrian refugees currently residing in Turkey.
The news of the embassy’s reopening aligns with broader geopolitical shifts. Just earlier this month, intense fighting culminated with the ouster of President Assad's regime as various insurgent factions gained power across Syria. Reports indicated large gatherings and prayers unfurled within the historic Umayyad Mosque celebrating this apparent transition of power, marking significant momentum against the regime after years of repression.
Turkey's support to certain rebel factions through the years has been pivotal. Its military presence and influence on the ground have helped reshape the strategic equations surrounding the remnants of Assad’s rule. This diplomatic move could signal to regional partners and other stakeholders Turkey's willingness to engage more directly with the emergent political structure within Syria.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has also highlighted the importance of this moment for future relations within the region, stressing the necessity for an interim government to be inclusive and non-sectarian. Turkey’s steps toward reopening the embassy could pave the way to aligning objectives with U.S. interests—focusing on ensuring security and stability throughout the region.
The dynamics of the Syrian conflict are far from over, and Turkey’s actions by reopening the embassy may operate as part of larger strategic interests. Concern surrounding the YPG and external influence operations from other nations are key areas of focus for Turkish policy-makers. Ankara is quite determined to prevent Kurdish forces from gaining strength and influencing the outcomes favorably toward their autonomy, which has been a longstanding concern.
Closing the chapter on years of isolated diplomatic relations, the action marks not only Turkey’s return to relations with Syria but also reflects broader ambitions about resolving the multifaceted issues surrounding national security, regional integrity, and the return of its citizens.
The next few weeks and months will be telling as international observers keep their eyes on the development of the new political scene within Syria and whether Turkey can forge lasting partnerships without falling back on the divisive tactics seen during the war years.
