Türkiye’s National Defence Ministry on Thursday welcomed the dissolution of the terror group YPG-led SDF and its integration into Syrian state institutions.
The ministry said the move is an important development for preserving Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity and strengthening the principle of "one state, one army."
The remarks came in response to a question about the dissolution and integration during a weekly press briefing in Türkiye's Afyonkarahisar province.
"Our Turkish Armed Forces will continue their support, within the framework of the existing military cooperation agreement, to help extend the positive momentum achieved in Syria across the country, ensure lasting stability and strengthen the capabilities of the Syrian army, particularly in the fight against terrorism," the ministry spokesperson Zeki Akturk said.
Addressing developments in the Middle East, Akturk said Israel's attacks and expansionist policies in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria remain the biggest obstacle to lasting peace and stability in the region and that they must end as soon as possible.
He said the region's future should be built on respect for international law, sovereignty, and territorial integrity rather than unilateral use of force, and reiterated the need for the international community to take concrete and effective measures against actions threatening regional and global peace and stability.
The ministry noted that it has been following US efforts to establish a de-escalation mechanism that would include Syria.
It also said it had not received any official request on the matter, adding that any such request would be assessed in coordination with relevant authorities if received.
'Terror-Free Türkiye' process
Regarding the “Terror-Free Türkiye” process, the ministry said the Follow-up and Evaluation Board, which includes Defence Minister Yasar Guler, held its first meeting under the chairmanship of Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz.
The meeting addressed procedures and principles for carrying out the process, and it was decided to establish four subcommittees, according to the ministry.
“Work to establish the subcommittees is continuing in coordination with relevant institutions,” it said.
The ministry stressed the importance of ensuring that the process progresses in a healthy and stable manner, adding that it would continue working with relevant institutions to determine and verify that terrorist organisations and affiliated structures have ended their presence on the ground and surrendered all weapons and ammunition in their possession.
