Preparations Underway for Trilateral Meeting on Syria Between Ankara, Washington, and Damascus

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan revealed that preparations are underway for a trilateral meeting between Ankara, Washington, and Damascus to discuss developments in Syria and related international relations. The planned meeting reflects Turkey’s interest in managing the Syrian file strategically and in a balanced manner, with an emphasis on security and regional stability.

1. Syrian Democratic Forces and Military Integration

Fidan stated that the status of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) will be a central topic during the meeting, particularly concerning their integration within a new Syrian military framework.

The March 10 agreement between the local administration and the SDF helped calm several conflict zones and suspend certain military activities. However, the SDF remains a sensitive issue requiring careful coordination among the parties to avoid reigniting local conflicts or undermining regional stability.

2. Russian Presence in Syria

The meeting’s agenda also includes discussion of Russian bases and deployments in Syria. Managing and coordinating the use of these bases will be among the key topics, especially given differences over Moscow’s role in various conflict zones.

This dialogue is expected to provide the three parties with a clearer understanding of the scope of Russian influence and the challenges associated with cooperation or coordination with Russian forces on the ground.

3. Turkish Presence and the Border with Israel

Fidan also referred to the establishment of Turkish observation points in northern Aleppo, near the Israeli border, aimed at monitoring the area and strengthening security.

The meeting will likewise address coordination regarding the Syrian–Israeli border, including measures to maintain border stability and security, and to ensure that tensions are not exploited by any external actors.

4. Turkey’s Balanced Policy and Stability Objectives

Fidan underscored that Turkey’s policy in Syria aims to prevent the country’s division or descent into chaos, while simultaneously seeking to enhance security and stability in the region.

He added that Turkey’s approach takes into account the impact of Syria’s situation on neighboring states, and that any steps taken within the Syrian file should strike a balance between local security and broader regional and international interests.

5. Ongoing Talks and Future Plans

The foreign minister explained that ongoing consultations are taking place among Ankara, Washington, and Damascus, with joint plans being developed to address the Syrian crisis.

The upcoming meeting aims to define strategic priorities, including matters related to the SDF, Russian presence, and border coordination with Israel.

According to Fidan, the trilateral meeting represents an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic and technical cooperation among the three parties and to develop clear mechanisms for addressing outstanding issues.

Conclusion

The trilateral meeting between Ankara, Washington, and Damascus comes at a critical juncture in the Syrian conflict. The focus on the Syrian Democratic Forces, Russian deployments, and border security highlights Turkey’s efforts to pursue a balanced strategic role that promotes regional stability and minimizes the risk of renewed conflict.

The ongoing preparations for the meeting underscore the parties’ shared recognition of the importance of joint coordination and practical planning to address the Syrian crisis in a structured and sustainable manner.