ERBIL – Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has urged the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to dissolve their structures if they wish to integrate with the Syrian central government successfully. 

Speaking at a meeting in Riyadh attended by foreign ministers from 12 Middle Eastern nations, Fidan reiterated Ankara’s stance that the SDF, led by the People’s Protection Forces (YPG), is an extension of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which Turkey, the US, and the EU classify as a terrorist organization.

Fidan accused the SDF and its affiliates of endangering Arab communities in the East Euphrates and exploiting Syria’s natural resources, depriving the population of critical necessities. 

He also emphasized Turkey’s readiness to collaborate with Syria to combat terrorist groups such as Islamic State, asserting that coordinated efforts could bolster Damascus’s ability to address extremism and contribute to the country’s reconstruction.

“Turkey is ready to do whatever is necessary to ease the difficult path of the Syrian people,” Fidan stated, reaffirming Ankara’s commitment to resolving Syria’s geopolitical and humanitarian challenges.

He also highlighted that regional nations bear the primary responsibility for Syria’s stabilization and reconstruction, which must be grounded in the principles of territorial integrity, unity, and sovereignty. 

Fidan underlined Turkey’s willingness to play a central role in facilitating Syria’s transition process and ensuring long-term peace and security in the region.