TÜRKİYE
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Türkiye’s naval chief visits Syria as defence cooperation expands
Admiral Ercument Tatlioglu leads a delegation to Latakia aboard TCG Istanbul as Ankara and Damascus discuss military coordination and Syrian forces’ restructuring.
Türkiye’s naval chief visits Syria as defence cooperation expands
Turkish Naval Forces Commander Admiral Ercument Tatlioglu and accompanying delegation arrived in Latakia on July 13, 2026. (Turkish Defence Ministry).

Türkiye’s Naval Forces Commander Admiral Ercument Tatlioglu visited Syria’s Latakia province aboard the TCG Istanbul frigate as part of efforts to develop defence cooperation between the two countries, Türkiye’s Defence Ministry said on Tuesday.

Tatlioglu and his accompanying delegation arrived in Latakia on Monday, where they were welcomed at the port by Syrian Naval Forces Commander Brigadier General Muhammed El Suud.

The two commanders held inter-delegation meetings focused on cooperation within the framework of the restructuring of the Syrian Armed Forces, according to the ministry.

Naval talks highlight growing coordination

During the visit, the delegations also inspected Latakia Military Port as part of the meetings, which were attended by Türkiye’s Ambassador to Damascus Nuh Yilmaz.

The visit marks a new step in defence engagement between Türkiye and Syria as both sides work to expand coordination and address security priorities.

Türkiye’s Defence Ministry said the cooperation efforts are part of broader initiatives aimed at strengthening ties and supporting the development of Syria’s military structures.

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SOURCE:TRT World