Turkish Foreign Minister stresses inclusion and security for Syria’s Kurds

Tuesday 10 February 2026 - 07:40

By: Sahili Aya

Turkish Foreign Minister stresses inclusion and security for Syria’s Kurds

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has underlined the importance of equal rights, freedoms and social inclusion for Syria’s Kurdish population, arguing that lasting stability in the war-torn country depends on inclusive governance and a shared sense of belonging among all citizens.

Speaking during a televised interview on Monday, Fidan said that marginalization and exclusion continue to fuel insecurity in Syria. He stressed that guaranteeing basic rights for all communities, including Kurds, is essential to preventing further tensions and violence.

Fidan recalled Türkiye’s long-standing engagement on the issue, noting that Ankara has repeatedly raised concerns about the status of Kurds in Syria. He pointed out that many Kurds have historically lacked citizenship and have felt disconnected from the state, a situation he described as unsustainable. According to him, this lack of belonging has contributed to mistrust and long-term instability.

The foreign minister also warned against what he described as “toxic narratives” that have deepened divisions within Syrian society. He cited the tendency to label entire communities through the lens of extremism, a dynamic that has intensified fear and undermined social cohesion. Eliminating such perceptions, he said, is a prerequisite for improving security on the ground.

Looking ahead, Fidan expressed cautious optimism regarding Syria’s current leadership. He praised what he described as a more pragmatic and responsible approach, noting the absence of reports of large-scale abuses against civilians in areas under government control. If this trajectory continues, he said, it could help ease tensions between communities, address Türkiye’s security concerns and open the way toward a more stable future for Syria.