Astana talks highlight steps toward Turkey-Syria normalization

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The 20th edition of the 'Astana Talks on Syria' concluded today in Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan, with the release of a joint statement." Kanat Tumış, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, read out a statement, highlighting the outcomes of the talks.

The joint statement underscored the commitment of the Astana guarantors, namely Turkey, Russia, and Iran, to the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Syria. It emphasized the need to develop a roadmap for the normalization of Syria-Turkey relations, with "fruitful consultations" held during the Astana meeting.

Efforts towards the normalization of relations between Syria and Turkey were recognized as vital, as coordinated meetings among the intelligence, defense, and foreign ministries of the four countries "demonstrated progress" in this regard.

The statement emphasized the importance of goodwill and good neighborly relations in creating favorable conditions for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of Syrian refugees, reviving the political process, and ensuring the unhindered flow of humanitarian aid.

Notably, the joint statement reflected the "security priorities" of both Damascus and Ankara, with specific provisions included:

• Condemnation of attacks by various terrorist organizations and their affiliated groups, operating under different names across different regions of Syria, targeting civilian facilities.
• Rejection of all attempts to create new realities on the ground, including illegitimate self-governance initiatives falsely justified by counterterrorism efforts.
• Condemnation of Israel's military attacks targeting civilian elements within Syria, acknowledging these actions as destabilizing and escalating tensions in the region.

Looking ahead, it was announced that the next Trilateral Summit between Turkey, Russia, and Iran would take place in Russia, serving as a platform for further discussions and collaboration. (VC/VK)