New Syrian Interim President Holds Meeting with Erdogan to Discuss Future Relations

The inaugural discussion focuses on collaboration, refugee concerns, and economic support amidst ongoing sanctions.

Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Shara, is poised to meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, marking a significant moment for future relations between Syria and Turkey. This meeting is al-Shara's first with Erdogan following the recent ouster of former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, an event driven by the opposition’s offensive led by al-Shara.

The meeting takes precedence as both nations grapple with the humanitarian and political ramifications of Syria's protracted civil conflict, which has persisted for 13 years. Turkey has expressed concerns regarding its shared border with Syria, hosting over three million refugees, many of whom fled during the violent upheaval. The potential instability in Syria raises fears of additional refugee inflow, further complicating Turkey's ongoing refugee situation.

Turkey has established military posts in northwestern Syria and maintains support for various armed groups along its southern border. However, there is an escalating threat perceived from a Kurdish militia operating in northeastern Syria, which Turkey views as a significant national security challenge. Therefore, the outcome of the al-Shara-Erdogan meeting could be pivotal in shaping Turkey's strategic military and humanitarian posture in the region.

For al-Shara, this meeting is an opportunity to garner essential support in his pursuit to unify the war-torn country, revitalize its shattered economy, and transform ragtag militias into a cohesive national army. Since his appointment as interim president, al-Shara has engaged with regional leaders, including Qatari and Saudi counterparts, to advocate for international backing in rebuilding Syria.

Despite Turkey's historical relationship with al-Shara's faction, the ongoing economic struggle facing Turkey due to rampant inflation may limit its capacity to offer substantial assistance in post-war recovery projects. Consequently, al-Shara has also made overtures to Western nations and Gulf states for financial support, recently receiving visits from high-profile leaders, including Qatar's emir and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Al-Shara, who has distanced himself from his previous affiliations with Al-Qaeda, now espouses more moderate views. Nevertheless, he confronts formidable challenges, including stringent international sanctions placed on Syria aimed at punishing the Assad regime and the classification of his militia, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, as a terrorist entity by both the United States and Turkey.

The forthcoming discussions between al-Shara and Erdogan will reveal potential pathways for cooperation and support for a new Syrian government while addressing the complexities of regional security and humanitarian needs amidst ongoing geopolitical dynamics.