President Ahmed al-Shar’a of Syria held separate phone calls with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the evolving situation in Aleppo, according to the Syrian Presidency.
During his conversation with President Erdoğan, President Shar’a emphasized Syria’s unwavering national principles, prioritizing the complete sovereignty of the state over all its territories. He stressed that the immediate focus is on protecting civilians, securing the surroundings of Aleppo, and eliminating illegal armed elements that hinder reconstruction efforts.
President Erdoğan affirmed Turkey’s support for efforts aimed at enhancing security and stability in Syria. He also underscored the importance of joint coordination to address shared challenges and threats. Both leaders agreed to maintain close collaboration between relevant institutions in their respective countries. This collaboration aims to ensure the implementation of mutual understandings, serve the interests of both the Syrian and Turkish people, and foster sustainable peace and stability in the region.
In his discussion with President Macron, President Shar’a briefed the French leader on the Syrian government’s efforts to protect civilians and secure Aleppo, with the goal of restoring normalcy to the city. He highlighted the crucial role of the state in safeguarding all citizens, regardless of their background.
President Macron reiterated France’s commitment to supporting Syria’s unity and sovereignty, as well as the Syrian government’s endeavors to consolidate stability. This comes as Syrian authorities imposed a full curfew in several districts of Aleppo, starting Thursday evening and continuing “until further notice,” due to the security situation stemming from escalating attacks by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
Clashes between the SDF and the Syrian Army have recently resumed following unsuccessful talks held last Sunday. These talks aimed to implement a March agreement that stipulated the integration of the SDF into state institutions. However, the SDF’s continued delays in implementing the agreement, which includes integrating civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria into state administration and opening border crossings, airports, and oil fields, have stalled progress.
