Speaking at a conference organized by the Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research (SETA) titled "Syria After One Year: Recovery and Reconstruction," Fidan stated unequivocally: "The YPG needs to understand this — no country has two armed elements. The armed forces in your hands must come under the command of the Syrian government," according to Turkish news outlet Kısa Dalga.
According to the Kısa Dalga news site, the Turkish Foreign Minister addressed the ongoing challenges posed by the YPG's presence in northern and eastern Syria, describing the group as an occupying force that spread across a wide territory under the pretext of fighting ISIS while controlling significant energy resources. Fidan questioned whether the YPG would reach an accommodation with Syria's new administration, identifying this as one of the most pressing issues currently facing the region.
Fidan revealed that an agreement was reached on March 10 between the parties, but expressed disappointment at the lack of progress. "We have not seen any concrete steps taken on this matter so far," he said, adding that Syrian Foreign Minister Asad al-Shaybani confirmed during their recent meeting at the Doha Forum that there had been little positive development.
Turkey's position remains centered on dialogue and peaceful resolution. "We, as Turkey, always say that the advancement of this process, the resolution of issues through peace, and avoiding new conflicts and confrontations is in nobody's interest," Fidan emphasized. "Therefore, it is important that the process moves forward through dialogue."
The minister also addressed the broader reconstruction challenges facing Syria, noting that experts have calculated the financial requirements for meeting the country's basic needs, repairing infrastructure, and fully normalizing life at approximately $216 billion. He stressed the importance of international community cooperation and regional collaboration in Syria's rebuilding efforts.
On the refugee situation, Fidan reaffirmed Turkey's commitment to voluntary and dignified returns. "You know where we stand regarding migrants or our refugee brothers and sisters. What matters to us is voluntary and dignified return. We have never imposed any coercive measures, regardless of their numbers," he stated.
Fidan drew parallels between the Assad regime's treatment of its own people and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies in Gaza, asserting that the former regime had exhausted its legitimacy and existence through its actions. He characterized the regime change as a new beginning for the Syrian people, emphasizing that solutions to regional problems must come through regional ownership.
The Foreign Minister highlighted Turkey's "open door policy" toward war victims as a historic example of solidarity, noting that Ankara maintained its principled stance despite domestic political criticism and significant costs. He underscored that the unification of all armed groups in Syria under a single national army umbrella is vital for the country's stability and economic development.