Moscow, May 10, 2023 – The foreign ministers of Russia, Syria, Turkey, and Iran – Sergey Lavrov, Faisal Mekdad, Mevlut Cavusoglu, and Hossein Amir-Abdollahian – gathered in Moscow on Wednesday for a crucial four-party meeting. The talks aimed to address various issues, including the repatriation of Syrian refugees and joint efforts in combating terrorism. The event marked a significant step toward the normalization of relations between Syria and Turkey.
The meeting, as reported by a TASS correspondent, was preceded by statements from Mevlut Cavusoglu, Turkey’s foreign minister, expressing his intentions to discuss multiple matters with his counterparts. Among the focal points were the safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees to their homeland and the ongoing battle against terrorism in the region.
In early April, the deputy foreign ministers of Russia, Syria, Turkey, and Iran held technical consultations in Moscow. The purpose of those discussions was to finalize the date and agenda for this high-level ministerial meeting. The gathering aimed to pave the way for enhanced cooperation and the reestablishment of normalcy in Syria-Turkey relations.
The repatriation of Syrian refugees has long been a pressing issue. The conflict in Syria has forced millions of individuals to seek shelter in neighboring countries, including Turkey. The meeting in Moscow provided an opportunity for the participating nations to address this humanitarian crisis and find feasible solutions for the safe return of refugees to their homeland.
Additionally, the ministers focused on the ongoing fight against terrorism in the region. The destabilizing presence of extremist groups has been a shared concern for all four nations. Cooperation in counterterrorism efforts could prove vital in ensuring the security and stability of the region. By strengthening their collaboration, Russia, Syria, Turkey, and Iran aim to effectively combat terrorism and maintain peace in the area.
The four-party meeting in Moscow represents a significant diplomatic endeavor, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and multilateral cooperation in addressing complex regional challenges. As the talks progress, the participating foreign ministers are expected to delve deeper into discussions surrounding the repatriation of Syrian refugees and outline strategies for intensified counterterrorism efforts.
The outcomes of this meeting hold the potential to reshape the dynamics of regional relations, fostering stability and cooperation among the involved nations. The cooperation between Russia, Syria, Turkey, and Iran is crucial not only for the welfare of their own citizens but also for the overall peace and security in the wider region.
As the discussions continue, the international community eagerly awaits the outcomes and hopes for positive developments that will contribute to the safe and dignified return of Syrian refugees to their homeland and a more secure and stable region in the fight against terrorism.