European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held a significant meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to discuss the latest developments in Syria. The conversation focused on the security situation in northern Syria, the ongoing refugee crisis, and regional stability. Both Brussels and Ankara continue to seek common ground on these critical issues, emphasizing the need for cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.
During the meeting, President Erdoğan highlighted Turkey’s military operations in northern Syria against Kurdish militant groups, such as the PKK and YPG, and stressed the importance of strengthening border security. He emphasized that Turkey has been facing significant challenges due to the influx of refugees and the ongoing instability in the region. Erdoğan urged the European Union to provide more substantial support in managing the refugee crisis and in stabilizing the region.
Von der Leyen acknowledged Turkey’s role as a key player in the Syrian conflict and reiterated the European Union’s commitment to supporting peace efforts in the region. However, she also emphasized the importance of ensuring that military operations do not further escalate tensions or affect civilian populations. The EU has been closely monitoring the humanitarian situation in Syria, with millions of displaced persons and refugees still in need of assistance.
The leaders discussed potential pathways to enhance collaboration between the European Union and Turkey, particularly in addressing the humanitarian needs in Syria and preventing further destabilization of the region. Von der Leyen expressed the EU’s willingness to engage with Turkey in a constructive manner, providing financial aid, and facilitating diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
This high-level meeting reflects the growing importance of international cooperation in dealing with the complex issues arising from the Syrian conflict. With millions of lives affected, both Turkey and the EU recognize the urgency of finding lasting solutions to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The talks between von der Leyen and Erdoğan are expected to pave the way for deeper dialogue and cooperation in the coming months, as both sides continue to address the challenges of security, migration, and peacebuilding in the region.