Category: Regions

Letter to College of Staten Island President Timothy G. Lynch

President Timothy G. Lynch
College of Staten Island
2800 Victory Boulevard
Staten Island, NY 10314
January 1, 2025

Dear President Lynch,

I write to you with deep concern regarding a matter that has the potential to tarnish the reputation of the College of Staten Island (CSI). I am compelled to address the recent remarks made by Ms. Özlem Gönér, who, as a Steering Committee member of the Emergency Committee for Rojava, appeared on Democracy Now on December 24, 2024. In her commentary, Ms. Gönér stated that “Turkey is a major threat to Kurds and to democratic experiments that Kurds have been implementing in the region starting in 2014,” and continued by claiming that “Turkey, Israel, and the U.S. collectively are trying to carve out this land, and Kurds are under threat.” While these statements may appear innocuous on the surface, they carry with them a dangerous misrepresentation of the realities on the ground, particularly concerning Türkiye’s legitimate national security concerns and its role as a NATO ally.

Ms. Gönér’s assertions are not only misleading but are also ideologically aligned with a group that maintains dangerous ties to the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party), a Marxist-Leninist organization recognized as a terrorist group by the United States, the European Union, and Türkiye. Over 45,000 women, children, teachers, doctors and men, lives have been lost to PKK violence.  U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Ankara on December 12, 2024, aptly described the PKK as “an enduring threat” to Türkiye. Furthermore, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin December 9th 2024 acknowledged Türkiye’s legitimate security concerns, particularly regarding the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF=YPG, PYD), which are closely tied to the PKK. December 13, 2024 Former CIA Senior Agent Glenn Corn on the Cipher Brief said” Turkiye is a much more strategic partner of importance for the U.S then working with YPG, PYD / PKK “Kurds”. Also Former US Ambassador to Turkey David Satterfield : recognizing A NATO Partner and Ally Turkey to defend itself against terror to exercise it right of self-defense CBS News December 18, 2024. December 19 2024 Former US Ambassador to Turkiye James Jeffery “US Backed SDF, given its undeniable ties to the PKK, is a  serious national-security threat to Turkiye.”

During Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing on combating ISIS, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) questions Secretary Carter and General Dunford on the U.S. military strategy in working with terrorist PKK and YPG in Syrai and Iraq highlighting the YPG’s connections to the PKK and their acts of terror, which have cost thousands of civilian lives.

The political framework of Rojava, which Ms. Gönér supports, is rooted in the ideology of Abdullah Öcalan, the leader of the PKK, thus creating a direct or indirect link between her actions and the PKK’s objectives. It is crucial to distinguish between humanitarian advocacy and political or military affiliations.

Despite any claims of neutrality, the ideological overlap between these groups raises significant concerns about the motivations behind Ms. Gönér’s rhetoric.

First and foremost, Türkiye’s official name—the “Republic of Türkiye”—is not merely a formality but represents the nation’s sovereignty and identity. By referring to the country as “Turkey,” Ms. Gönér, along with others in her circle, undermines the diplomatic respect due to a sovereign state. This disregard for proper naming conventions is a symptom of a broader trend to delegitimize Türkiye and its government on the international stage. Furthermore, Ms. Gönér’s remarks about the deaths of journalists Nazım Daştan and Cihan Bilgin, who she claims were targeted by Türkiye are baseless and lack substantiation in any court of law, including the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). There is no publicly available information supporting her allegations. Her attempt to frame these deaths as a pretext to vilify Türkiye’s counterterrorism efforts only serves to further distort the narrative surrounding the country’s legitimate security actions.

Also US State Department has never taken Ms Goner position.

Ms. Gönér’s comments about Türkiye’s engagement with ISIS are equally misguided. She falsely portrays Türkiye as a supporter of ISIS, a claim that has been repeatedly debunked by numerous international figures. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Ankara on December 12, 2024, correctly described the PKK & ISIS  as “an enduring threat” to Türkiye. Additionally, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, on December 9, 2024, recognized Türkiye’s legitimate security concerns, particularly regarding the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which have strong ties to the PKK. Former CIA Senior Agent Glenn Corn, on December 13, 2024, emphasized that Türkiye is a far more strategic partner for the United States than groups like the YPG/PYD/PKK and ISIS . Former U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, David Satterfield, former U.S. Ambassador James Jeffrey also affirmed the necessity of recognizing Türkiye’s right to self-defense in the face of these terrorist threats.

Turkey has played a significant role in the fight against ISIS with only country with Soldier going face to face  on the ground , receiving recognition from various Western leaders and institutions.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has highlighted the alliance’s and Turkiyes commitment to combating international terrorism, including ISIS.

Think Tanks: Council on Foreign Relations (CFR): While CFR has critically analyzed Turkey’s strategies, it acknowledges Turkey’s active military campaigns against ISIS. In an article titled “Turkey Is Lying About Fighting ISIS,” CFR discusses the complexities of Turkey’s involvement, indicating that while Turkey has engaged ISIS militarily, there are nuances to its broader regional strategy.

António Guterres: In October 2019, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed acknowledging Turkey’s security concerns related to fighting ISIS.

United Nations: Former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon emphasized Turkey’s pivotal role in the fight against ISIS

Germany: The German government backed Turkey’s military initiatives against ISIS, with officials noting the importance of Turkey’s role in the regional fight against terrorism. India: In October 2019, during Turkey’s military operations in northeastern Syria, Turkey justified as part of its fight against terrorist groups, including ISIS.

Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia has also publicly supported Türkiye’s fight against ISIS, both in terms of military operations and international diplomatic efforts to combat terrorism.

Indonesia – Indonesian leaders have consistently commended Türkiye’s efforts in combating ISIS and terrorism in the region .

Malaysia – The Malaysian government has recognized Türkiye’s role in the fight against ISIS.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) – UAE leaders have praised Türkiye’s role in countering terrorism, particularly ISIS, noting Türkiye’s significant contributions to the security of the region.

Kuwait – The Kuwaiti government has expressed gratitude towards Türkiye for its contribution to the regional fight against ISIS, especially in terms of humanitarian and military efforts.

Jordan – As a neighboring country affected by ISIS, Jordan has often acknowledged Türkiye’s efforts in fighting ISIS, especially considering their shared interest in regional stability.

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has analyzed Turkey’s role in regional security dynamics. In discussions about Turkey’s actions in Syria, CSIS noted the complexities of Turkey’s involvement in the region, including its stance against ISIS.

These acknowledgments underscore Turkey’s active participation in the international effort to combat ISIS, as recognized by U.S. officials and policy analysis organizations.

Moreover, it is important to address Ms. Gönér’s use of the phrase “a big threat to the Kurdish population.” Such rhetoric ignores the fact that over 15 million Turkish Kurds live peacefully within Türkiye, enjoying equal rights under the law. Many of these Kurdish citizens hold positions of great responsibility, including in Türkiye’s highest offices. The PKK, however, is not representative of the Kurdish population; it is a terrorist organization that has waged a violent campaign against both Turkish civilians and the Kurdish people themselves.

o frame Türkiye’s counterterrorism efforts as an attack on the Kurdish people is not only inaccurate but harmful. Türkiye has long been a protector of vulnerable Kurdish populations, as demonstrated by its efforts during the Gulf War, when it sheltered over 500,000 Kurds fleeing Saddam Hussein. Since the Syrian Civil War began in 2012, Türkiye has hosted millions of refugees, including tens of thousands of Syrian Kurds, providing them with refuge from the brutality of PKK and YPG forces.

Türkiye’s anti-terror operations are focused on groups like the PKK and its affiliates, such as the YPG and PYD, which have exploited regional instability to pursue separatist and extremist goals. Not Kurds.

In recent statements, Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) , has emphasized the need for the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK / YPG- PYD  ) to cease its activities within the Kurdistan Region. He has described the PKK / YPG, PYD   as a “headache” for both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, criticizing the group. Mr. Barzani has called on the terrorist YPG linked to PKK to distance its operations from the people of  ”kurdistan”, highlighting that the group’s actions are detrimental to the region’s stability and security.

On December 25th 2024 Abdullah Keddo, a representative of the Kurdish National Council in Syria (ENKS), the main political representative of Kurds “We refuse to accept the presence of the   PKK and its affiliates in Syria, all of which must be removed from the region,”

Kurdish Parliament in Iraq: The Kurdish Parliament has expressed gratitude to Turkey for its continued efforts to ensure the safety of Kurds in Iraq, including the provision of military support against ISIS during the 2014-2017 period. Many Kurdish parliamentarians have recognized Turkey’s role in promoting the Kurdish region’s economic development. Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) officials: Many Kurdish leaders in Iraq, particularly from the KRG, have expressed gratitude towards Turkey for its support in protecting the Kurdish population in northern Iraq from Saddam Hussein’s regime following the Gulf War. This support included humanitarian aid, shelter for refugees, and logistical assistance in the establishment of a safe zone in northern Iraq in the early 1990s. These expressions of gratitude and praise for Turkey’s support reflect the relationship that Kurdish groups have had with Turkey over the years, particularly in times of regional conflict. Ms. Goner forgot to mention.

As a NATO ally, Türkiye has continuously stood at the forefront of efforts to combat terrorism and preserve regional stability with us in America. Ms. Gönér’s characterization of Türkiye’s actions as a threat undermines the strategic importance of this alliance and sows division where none should exist. Instead of promoting a nuanced understanding of the situation, she inflames tensions and perpetuates misinformation that damages diplomatic relations between NATO allies.

In addition, I must express my concern that Ms. Gönér’s rhetoric is finding a platform at CSI. The College of Staten Island, a respected institution of higher learning, should not serve as a mouthpiece for groups with potential ties to terrorist organizations. The Emergency Committee for Rojava, of which Ms. Gönér is a part, has been associated with the PKK’s terrorist ideology, and her comments align with this group’s broader goals. It is crucial that CSI consider the implications of hosting individuals who, through their statements and affiliations, may inadvertently or intentionally undermine national security, harm U.S.-Türkiye and Israeli relations, and weaken NATO’s collective strength.

In conclusion, the ongoing campaign to delegitimize Türkiye—both within academic institutions and on the global stage—poses a grave threat to regional stability. The spread of one-sided, inflammatory narratives only exacerbates tensions and diverts attention from the real threats posed by groups like the PKK, YPG, and ISIS. I urge you to take this matter seriously and ensure that College of Staten Island, CSI remains a place where diverse perspectives are encouraged, but not at the cost of the integrity and national security of the United States, Turkiye, Isreal and its NATO allies.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Ibrahim Kurtulus

Cc: Chazanoff School of Business Dept.

Management- CSI

Sociology and Anthropology Dept

Faculty & Staff

January 7, 2025
The axis of Turkish foreign policy towards Iraq between security and defense and diplomacy

Yalman Haceroğlu writes: The axis of Turkish foreign policy towards Iraq between security and defense and diplomacy

Before drawing the strategic map of Turkish policy towards Iraq through the constants, determinants and calculations of Iraq in Turkish foreign policy, we must shed light on the imagination that contains sentences and phrases to explain the purpose of international policy.

Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527), an Italian thinker, philosopher and politician, says that the purpose of politics is to maintain the strength of the state and work to maintain and strengthen it, as these means based on the state’s foreign policy make it achieve internal strength and enable it to expand its authority abroad.

On the other hand, Friedrich Hegel (1770-1831), a German philosopher, believes that the state is based on the principle of the authority of the will, and from this standpoint the state must be independent in its external relations and not subject to the authority of another state. That is, it works according to what its will alone dictates.

By studying the opinions and theories of philosophers in politics and building an independent state, we must determine the components of building an independent state, and the source of these components is thought and politics, and in other words, political thought in building a state.

First, some researchers went to the point that politics is a person’s awareness of the creatures around him and the direct exchange of benefits with these creatures. Then this individuality turned into societalism through the development of human ideas that enabled him the ability and capacity to be an inventor. This transformation from individualism of relationship and benefit to collectivism of relationship and benefit was the role of politics. At each stage, man had to realize organisation and order, and since these two things require thought, which is the main driver of politics. Thus, man entered a new phase, which is the overlap between thought and politics.

The overlap between thought and politics includes three stages according to the aforementioned Italian thinker and philosopher, Niccolo Machiavelli: –

The first stage: the practical apply of political work

The second stage: the mental practice of political work, which includes writing, publishing ,literature, presentation and expression.

The third stage: Combining practical apply and mental practice, and led to output of balanced equation between thought and politics that appears and as two parallel lines. However, there remains a disparity in the mentality level between those who practice apply and in terms of the diversity of ideas. The mentality level will not disappear as long as there is a disparity in the culture possessed by politicians and as long as there is sufficient space for personal interests and whims in some souls and as long as there are mental illnesses that we can call political disability that may be apparent or hidden but appear in behavior.

In another context, Machiavelli believes that there are qualities and characteristics that the leader of the state or its prince must emulate, including shrewdness, insight and acumen that qualify the prince of the state to rely on his military strength without interacting with the outside and without resorting to additional forces or military assistance in terms of land, air and sea equipment and mechanisms.

When we examine these components in the nature of Turkish foreign policy and in Turkish internal affairs, we see it necessary to formulate these questions: Does the Turkish Republic have the authority of will? Is the Republic of Turkey an independent state in its foreign relations? How has Turkey been able to maintain its position of power? How do we view the overlap and interaction between politics and thought among Turkish politicians and those concerned with the Arab file, especially the Iraqi file, and the relationship between the intelligence establishment and the diplomatic establishment? To answer these questions, we will remove the curtain from the military and political scene in the Republic of Turkey, in addition to the statements of Turkish leaders, headed by Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of the Republic of Turkey. We can consider 2023 the year of unprecedented Turkish defense industries. Turkey has sought with all its weight to standardize, fortify and strengthen its security forces in order to eliminate external dependency and create a long-term military defense vision through the use of modern technologies in military manufacturing and defense.

With its independent military industry, Turkey has produced the ATAK 2 attack helicopter, the combat drone and the jet trainer aircraft. Turkey was also not far from producing air defense systems and producing combat helicopter engines. In the field of armor, the Turkish military industry has produced the Tay tanks.

In the naval force, the largest Turkish ship, Anadolu TCG, entered the Turkish Navy’s arsenal.

The foreign policy of the Turkish state has adapted to the authority of the will in the state. Whereas the independent state is represented by its true entity through its foreign policy and not allowing interference in its internal affairs. The approach of foreign policy is the solid means to maintain the security and independence of the state by building a wall that prevents external interference in the internal affairs of that state. Here, Niccolo Machiavelli has proven his saying that the goal of politics is to maintain the power of the state and the expansion of its authority abroad, but in our opinion it must be in harmony with international decisions without affecting the sovereignty of the countries with which it deals diplomatically and politically.. These constants and determinants are among the priorities of Turkish foreign policy.

Turkey has recorded in its strategic file towards Iraq the pivotal points through an equation, which includes on the first side security and defense and on the second side of the equation there is intelligence diplomacy that forms foreign policy. That is, the Turkish Republic has drawn up a roadmap in its foreign policy towards Iraq since 2017, indicating the strongholds of the terrorist PKK organization on it in order to carry out military operations deep inside Iraqi territory in order to preserve its security and national borders.

Here the question arises, how did Turkey draw this military and political strategy together ?

Turkish foreign policy has focused on the two dimensions that included intelligence and diplomatic work since Dr. Hakan Fidan led the foreign policy portfolio in 2017, the head of the Turkish Intelligence Agency who assumed responsibility in 2010.

Fidan relied on applied intelligence to formulate Turkish foreign policy.

On the other hand, Hakan Fidan drew a foreign policy based on intelligence information. This is the practical apply of political work that constitutes the first stage in the overlap between thought and politics mentioned above, as he practiced political work in the Turkish presidency as an advisor and a foreign worker in NATO and his membership in the International Atomic Energy Agency and before all this his work as an officer in the Turkish army. Fidan also possesses the mental practice of political work through his writings and theses for obtaining master’s and doctoral degrees, and this is the second stage of the overlap between thought and politics, as Fidan combined political and mental work.

As a result of Hakan Fidan’s intelligence background and his extensive knowledge of Iraqi affairs in light of the experience accumulated through building diverse and different relationships with politicians from different Iraqi sects and bureaucratic circles, this constituted a noticeable shift towards policies that are more focused on the security dimension, heading towards curbing the threat posed by the terrorist organization PKK. With his appointment as head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on June 3, 2023, Turkish foreign policy in the Iraqi file has gained the ability to develop in different directions. During the years that Hakan Fidan led the Turkish intelligence service, he laid the foundations for bilateral relations with several effective communication channels in the Iraqi arena. It seems that he had built a good relationship with the head of the Iraqi intelligence service at the time, Mustafa Al-Kazemi. More importantly, he strengthened the bonds of close friendship with the head of the Hashd ELshabi Authority, Faleh Fayyadh, who is the real political actor in Iraq. He met with him many times in Baghdad and Ankara. Turkey also gave full confidence to the Sunni businessman Sheikh Khamis Khanjar, leader of the Azm Alliance, who emerged to the surface of Iraqi politics in recent years and became one of Turkey’s main partners, who initially allied with the leader of the EL Takddum (progress)Movement and former Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi, who formed the Sovereignty Alliance. However, this alliance collapsed after Mohammed al-Halbousi changed his political course. In terms of security and defense, Hakan Fidan achieved solid ground through foreign policy and diplomatic work The uniqueness of creating a legal outlet in agreement with the Iraqi side to protect the borders and Turkish national security by launching military operations inside Iraqi territory against the terrorist organization PKK that threatens Turkish national security, within a previous agreement with the Iraqi government that allows the Turkish army to penetrate Iraqi territory to fight the terrorist organization.

Also, the Iraqi Minister of Defense, Sheikh Thabet Muhammad Saeed Al-Aybek Al-Abbasi, had a close relationship with Hakan Fidan when he ran for the Iraqi Council of Representatives elections in 2018 within the Nineveh Our Identity coalition, which won a seat inside the Iraqi parliament. It is noteworthy that Sheikh Thabet Al-Abbasi founded the Iraqi Turkmen Salvation Front in 2017.

The Iraqi Minister of Defense, Sheikh Thabet Al-Abbasi, met with the Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, in Baghdad in August 2023.

Ammar al-Hakim

If we shed light on the Shia file in Turkish foreign policy, we find that Turkey has not marginalized any of the Shia politicians, and on every occasion it stands with the most prominent Shia leaders. On the other hand Turkey has special relations with Sheyh Ammar al-Hakim, the former head of the Supreme Islamic Council and head of the AL- Hikma Movement. In one of my television interviews with Sheyh. Ammar al-Hakim, I asked him about the Turkish role in Iraq, and he answered by saying:

Turkey represents serious policy in the region, as it is the largest economic partner of Iraq, and we look at Turkey as a strategic ally of Iraq, as there are dozens of agreements signed between Iraq and Turkey, it connects the Arabs with the West.

Thus, we find that Turkey has historical, economic and cultural relations with Iraq, as it is a large Islamic country with its status and role in the region, and the Turkish Republic is Iraq’s window to the West.

Turkey has been able to address hot issues in the region and in Iraq by adopting a wise and balanced policy. We are always in favor of strengthening bilateral relations with Turkey.

It always stands at equal distances with the spectrum of the Iraqi people.. and most importantly, Sheyh. Ammar al-Hakim said something that most Iraqis may not know, where he said:

We have a special and personal relationship with the Turks, as my wife’s mother is Turkish, meaning we have intermarriage relations with the Turks.

As for the Turkish foreign policy towards the Kurdish file in Iraq:

It is no secret that the Kurdish political arena includes the two main Kurdish parties (the KDP and PUK )

The KDP , led by Masoud Barzani, is characterized by its proximity to Turkey through economic and political ties, as the Kurdistan Democratic Party adopts a policy hostile to the terrorist organization PKK, and this policy is an important strategic line for Turkey.. In 2011, Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan went to Erbil and opened Erbil International Airport, and he was then serving as Prime Minister.. Then the visits between the two sides were repeated.

Turkey’s relationship with the PUK that led by Pavel Talabani, who is loyal to Iran, is tense due to the party’s support for the terrorist organization PKK. On many occasions, the Turkish government called on the PUK abandon its policy of supporting the terrorist organization.

Turkish foreign policy towards Iraq has been based on two main pillars since 2003.

First: The unity of Iraqi territory (geopolitical security), as Turkey considered that preserving the unity of Iraqi territory is related to its national security, and the Kirkuk issue falls within this framework.

Second: Stability in Iraq (economic security). For Ankara, the stability of Iraq is a strategic gain for the continuity of trade exchange between the two countries.

Adham Touq Demir

On July 12, 2004, an official delegation from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs headed by Ambassador Adham Tok Demir visited Kirkuk. The delegation included figures from various institutions in the Turkish government. It was the first official visit to Kirkuk after the fall of the former regime. During this visit, I was able to meet the ambassador. Adham Touq Demir in a television interview at the Kirkuk Governorate Diwan.. I asked the ambassador about the reasons for their visit to Kirkuk, and he answered saying:

Iraq is one of the important countries in the region that

Iraq is distinguished by its possession of huge human and natural resources. We also hope that the Iraqi people will live in peace and stability. Kirkuk represents a miniature Iraq that includes all nationalities and religions, and they are linked to each other by ties of kinship and neighborhood. We will also meet with all Turkmen, Kurdish, Arab and Assyrian parties, and we will visit Turkmen, Kurdish and Arab villages. We are also ready to extend a helping hand to all Iraqi brothers.

From the perspective of my journalistic and media profession, and through conducting dozens of television and press interviews with Turkish leaders, starting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, passing through the officials of the Iraqi file in the Turkish Foreign Ministry, and ending with Turkish ambassadors and diplomats inside Iraq from 2003 to 2020, I would like to respectfully present some recommendations to His Excellency the Turkish Foreign Minister, Dr. Hakan Fidan, regarding Iraqi-Turkish relations. In return, I held dozens of meetings with Iraqi leaders regarding bilateral relations between Iraq and Turkey, and within the framework of these meetings, I outline these recommendations for the Iraqi-Turkish interest.

1- Opening research and study centers on Iraqi affairs to draw up political, economic and security strategies.

2- Appointing intelligent and trustworthy advisors in Turkish missions inside Iraq who are fluent in both Arabic and Turkish.

3- Appointing electronic committees to respond to the deviant voices that appear here and there and to respond to the slander against Turkey.

4- Not relying on figures and partners from semi-intellectuals.

5- Not relying on political figures and those who have political hibernation.

6- Turkey must be careful in choosing its allied .

7- Allocating the necessary space on the TRT Arabic channel for Iraqi affairs within political programs.

The channel lacks political programs with Iraqi decision-makers and due to the importance of Iraqi-Turkish relations, a section of news and political programs must be allocated that are concerned with Iraqi affairs.

As we were in the Iraqi Turkmen Eli satellite channel, we used to produce programs and political news that specialize in Iraqi-Turkish relations within meetings with Turkish representatives and diplomats in order to bring viewpoints closer and show. Facts for Iraqis about Türkiye’s right to carry out some political or military operations and in return to hold meetings with Iraqi officials about relations between the two countries in different places, but this satellite channel now lacks such programs.

January 7, 2025
President Ilham Aliyev was interviewed by Azerbaijan Television

On December 29, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev was interviewed by Azerbaijan Television at Heydar Aliyev International Airport.

AZERTAC presents the interview.

Journalist: Hello Mr. President.

President Ilham Aliyev: Hello.

Journalist: Unfortunately, an event that deeply shocked all of us occurred in recent days. On 25 December, an AZAL plane flying from Baku to Grozny crashed near the city of Aktau, Kazakhstan. We would like to know your thoughts on how subsequent developments unfolded.

President Ilham Aliyev: I received information about this while on the plane flying to St. Petersburg to participate in the CIS Summit. I was informed and immediately ordered that the plane should return to Baku. As soon as I arrived in Baku, I held an operational meeting at the airport. While I was still on the way to Baku, a State Commission was established on my instruction, and a delegation consisting of representatives of relevant agencies was immediately dispatched to the city of Aktau. Because they had to start work immediately. First of all, they had to get acquainted with the condition of the plane’s remains, conduct on-site observations, obtain video and photo footage, and present them to the public.

Additionally, a group of Azerbaijani doctors was dispatched to Aktau, although the Kazakh side spared no effort to treat the wounded and provide them with medical care. At the same time, the Prosecutor General’s Office of Azerbaijan started a criminal case on my instructions, and I know that similar steps were taken both in Kazakhstan and in Russia. Of course, work has begun on the initial theories. Of course, the final version will become clear after the black boxes have been examined. However, the initial theories are also quite reasonable and are based on facts. The facts indicate that the Azerbaijani civilian plane was damaged from the outside over Russian territory, near the city of Grozny, and almost lost control. We also know that means of electronic warfare put our plane out of control. This was the first impact on the plane. At the same time, as a result of fire from the ground, the tail of the plane was also severely damaged. Immediately, on the same day, our team captured this video footage from the city of Aktau and informed the public about it. The fact that the fuselage is riddled with holes indicates that the theory of the plane hitting a flock of birds, which was brought up by someone, is completely removed from the agenda. It is possible that when the plane was damaged, when it was hit, the pilot could have perceived it as a collision with birds. Because it would probably never have occurred to anyone that our plane might be fired at from the ground while flying over a country friendly to us. Unfortunately, however, some circles in Russia preferred to put forward this theory. Another regrettable and surprising moment for us was that official Russian agencies put forward theories about the explosion of a gas cylinder on board the plane. In other words, this clearly showed that the Russian side wanted to cover up the issue, which, of course, is unbecoming of anyone. Of course, our plane was hit by accident. Of course, there can be no talk of a deliberate act of terror here. Therefore, admitting guilt, apologizing in a timely manner to Azerbaijan, which is considered a friendly country, and informing the public about this – these were measures and steps that should have been taken. Unfortunately, for the first three days, we heard nothing from Russia except for some absurd theories.

Of course, the details of the accident will be fully investigated. I have no doubt about that. I must also note that Azerbaijan was in favor of a group of international experts engaging in this work from the very first day. The Russian side officially suggested to us that the Interstate Aviation Committee investigate this matter. But we categorically refused. The reason is clear. Because it is no secret that this organization consists mostly of Russian officials and is headed by Russian citizens. Objectivity factors could not be fully ensured here. If we had seen fair and reasonable steps by Russia in the immediate aftermath of the accident, we probably would not have objected. But we saw that attempts to cover up the case were quite obvious.

Therefore, we expressed this position in our close contacts both to the Kazakh side and the Russian side – a working group consisting of international experts only should be established, and it was. There are representatives of the aircraft manufacturer, Embraer, those of relevant Brazilian agencies, representatives of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Russia, including the Interstate Aviation Committee – not in leading roles, but simply as members of the working group. Let me repeat, after the flight recorders have been opened and we have obtained more detailed information, the full picture of what happened will be revealed and many questions that still remain outstanding today will be clarified. For example, why couldn’t the plane land in Grozny? To what extent did the means of radio-electronic warfare affect the plane’s controls? What was the extent of consequences of the strike and the explosion in the vicinity of the plane? Because I must also state that attempts to deny obvious facts and pull the wool over people’s eyes here are both nonsensical and absurd. Because fortunately, thanks to the heroism of the crew, an incident occurred that allowed the plane to land, even though it was an emergency landing. Many of the passengers survived, and their testimonies are available. The injuries inflicted on the passengers and crew by the shrapnel that pierced the plane are also obvious. Attributing this to a flock of birds or to the explosion of a gas cylinder is both foolish and dishonest. Therefore, we will find out why the plane could not land after the black boxes have been opened. When exactly was the plane fired at from the ground? Why didn’t the plane attempt to land at the nearest airports, which were Mineralnye Vody and Makhachkala? Was the plane sent to Aktau, or was this an objective choice? There are various hypotheses. Some believe that the plane was deliberately sent off course by ground handling services in Grozny because the plane was already out of control, and there was a high probability it would fall into the sea. If this had been the case, the cover-up attempts would have been successful, and the so-called bird theory would have been presented as the most likely version. According to some experts, Aktau was chosen because it is located in an open space, residential areas are far from the airport, and the crew of the plane could have assumed that this would be an emergency landing and chose a more suitable place for it. On the other hand, however, with nearby airports available, it was riskier for an uncontrollable plane to fly further, especially over the sea. In other words, there are no answers to all these questions yet. We, the Azerbaijani side, and I personally are trying to be as fair as possible. We do not want to express an opinion on unclear issues before they are fully clarified. However, we must, we do, and we will state our opinion with full determination on obvious issues. I said in my remarks here at the airport on the day of the accident that the Azerbaijani public will be regularly updated on this issue, and on the progress of this investigation, and that it is.

– Mr. President, how would you assess the performance of the aircraft crew?

– Very highly. I attended the farewell ceremony today and expressed my condolences to the relatives of the deceased crew members. Today, I will issue an order awarding the crew members. I highly appreciate their performance, professionalism, and dedication. The pilots and the entire crew showed true heroism. The pilots showed both professionalism and heroism in controlling the plane that was out of control in various ways. Of course, they were experienced pilots and knew that they would not be able to survive this emergency landing. However, they displayed tremendous heroism to save the passengers, and it is thanks to them that there are survivors in this plane crash. It is thanks to them that a section of the fuselage did not burn, and it is thanks to them that we can clearly say today that the plane was shot down by Russia. This is a fact, and no-one can deny this fact. Again, we are not saying that this was done intentionally, but it was done.

The pilots and crew members showed both professionalism and composure. I must specifically acknowledge the female crew members. They themselves were in a state of stress, but look how humanely they acted to calm the passengers and prevent chaos inside the plane. Their actions, I repeat, will be duly acknowledged by the Azerbaijani state. May Allah rest the souls of the deceased crew members and all those who died in peace. We wish the survivors a speedy recovery. Most of the survivors are already in Baku. They received immediate treatment in Kazakhstan. Some are still receiving treatment and will be evacuated to Azerbaijan as soon as possible.

– Mr. President, you phoned the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. We would like to know your opinion on the issues discussed. In general, how would you evaluate the joint activity of Azerbaijani and Kazakh government officials working together on this issue?

– Yes, first of all, I called to express my gratitude to President Tokayev. Because we knew, and had received information, that as soon as the accident occurred, Kazakh rescuers immediately arrived at the scene and began to pull people out of the destroyed fuselage. They put their own lives at risk. Because they did not know whether there would be another explosion or not. A part of the plane had burned, and the other part could have caught fire as well. But despite this, they showed true heroism. At the same time, the activities of the medical teams were also very valuable. Because the injured passengers were immediately taken to medical facilities, and I expressed my gratitude to President Tokayev for this. I know that the demonstration of solidarity by our Kazakh brothers and sisters also left a great mark in the hearts of the Azerbaijani people. Ordinary people went to our consulate in Aktau, laid flowers, and expressed their attitude and solidarity with us. This is what true friendship and brotherhood are like. During my conversation with President Tokayev, I also expressed Azerbaijan’s position on the investigation and brought to his attention the issues I have just mentioned – that we are in favor of international examination and in no way can we put this issue at the disposal of the Interstate Aviation Committee. This position was also met with understanding. Of course, representatives of our government institutions, members and heads of the commission, and representatives of the prosecutor’s office are constantly in touch. Kazakhstan, in turn, has also created a State Commission, and President Tokayev informed me about this during the conversation. They also want and are trying to ensure that the issue is fully disclosed, of course. At the same time, I also expressed my condolences to President Tokayev because six citizens of Kazakhstan died as a result of the accident. He also expressed his condolences to me. In other words, no matter how serious the incident was, it was also a test. In other words, how will anyone come out of this test? I am glad that despite this tragedy, I see and am sure that people in Kazakhstan share the same opinion. Our friendship and brotherhood have become even stronger after this difficult situation.

– In the aftermath of the accident, AZAL suspended flights to some Russian cities. What was the reason for this decision and how are things going now?

– I gave this instruction, and the main reason for this, of course, is the issue of safety. Because airspace in many Russian cities is occasionally closed, and a special operating regime is applied there. They call this a “Kovyor (carpet) operation,” and returning to what I mentioned in the first question, I must also mention that one other thing must also be clarified: when was that “Kovyor operation” announced? Because according to the information on our hands, that “Kovyor operation” was announced only after our plane had been exposed to external influence. If this is the case, it once again shows that local services did this to cover up the issue.

As for AZAL flights, AZAL has indefinitely suspended its flights to seven Russian cities. At the same time, we have also suspended flights of Russian airlines from three Russian cities to Azerbaijan. Our air connection with a total of 10 cities has now been suspended, and let me repeat that, first of all, security issues are at the forefront here. We have always considered the safety of our passengers a priority, and this situation has been declared. Whatever we do, we do it openly. Let me repeat, this decision has been made. When will these flights be resumed, especially to the city of Grozny? Most likely, they will not. Life will tell, and the security of Russian airspace will certainly be taken into account.

– Mr. President, what are Azerbaijan’s expectations and demands from Russia in general in connection with what happened?

– We have clearly expressed our demands to the Russian side. These demands were officially communicated to them on 27 December. What do these demands consist of? First of all, the Russian side must apologize to Azerbaijan. Secondly, it must acknowledge its guilt. Thirdly, those responsible must be punished, brought to criminal responsibility, and compensation must be paid to the Azerbaijani state, to the injured passengers and crew members. These are our conditions. The first of these was fulfilled yesterday. I do hope that the other conditions will also be accepted. All these conditions are fair. There are no extraordinary demands or issues here; all of this is based on international experience and normal human conduct. That’s it. I repeat, the Azerbaijani public is and will be informed about all sides of the issue. The conditions I mentioned are conveyed to the public through you, of course, and I repeat, I do hope that our conditions are accepted.

– Thank you very much, Mr. President. We are grateful for your detailed answers to our questions.

– Thank you.

January 6, 2025
S.Korea: Its Diplomatic Horizons Toward Republic of Türkiye

South Korea Must Broaden Its Diplomatic Horizons Toward Türkiye and the Turkic World ( Below in Korean Language )

In a world increasingly defined by complex geopolitical rivalries and shifting alliances, South Korea must consider diversifying its international partnerships to ensure national security and long-term prosperity. One compelling avenue lies in forging deeper ties with Türkiye and the broader Turkic world, encompassing over 450 million people and rooted in a shared historical, cultural, and strategic legacy. The time has come for South Korea to revisit these connections and embrace a partnership with profound mutual benefits.

Historical Brotherhood: A Foundation of Trust

The bond between South Korea and Türkiye is not a mere diplomatic formality but a deeply ingrained relationship that transcends generations. This connection dates back to antiquity, with alliances between the Göktürks and Goguryeo during periods of conflict and expansion. It was profoundly solidified during the Korean War when Türkiye responded with unparalleled solidarity, dispatching the Turkish Brigade to defend South Korea. The term “Korean-Turkish brotherhood” encapsulates this unique relationship, one often described as “blood brothers.”

Today, this bond resonates deeply within Türkiye. The average age of Turkish veterans of the Korean War is now 89, yet their unwavering sentiment remains: “An attack on South Korea is an attack on Türkiye.” This powerful ethos is echoed by younger generations of Turks who maintain a profound sense of care and connection to their Korean counterparts. Such enduring solidarity underscores an exceptional opportunity for South Korea to reevaluate its partnerships in a rapidly changing world.

Shared Challenges, Shared Opportunities Türkiye and South Korea face strikingly similar challenges, including managing nuanced relations with powerful neighbors such as Russia and China. The Turkic world, united under the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), has emerged as a significant counterweight in the region. Through initiatives in defense, energy, and cultural cooperation, the OTS exemplifies the potential of unified action among nations with shared roots.

South Korea’s engagement with the OTS could yield substantial dividends. The bloc offers an alternative alliance system that complements South Korea’s existing relationships, diversifying its strategic options. By partnering with Türkiye and the broader Turkic world, South Korea can reduce overreliance on relationships that may prioritize narrow interests confined to the Korean Peninsula.

The Turkic World: A Rising Force Türkiye’s initiatives in Central Asia exemplify a strategic vision for strengthening ties within the Turkic world. Recent developments, including collaborations in trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange, demonstrate the region’s collective commitment to self-reliance and global influence. South Korea stands to benefit immensely by aligning with this vision. Closer ties with Türkiye and the Turkic nations would provide access to new markets, diversified economic partnerships, and enhanced security frameworks—all vital to safeguarding South Korea’s national interests.

Moreover, this realignment would honor the historical bonds that unite these nations. The cultural affinities and shared values between South Korea and the Turkic world provide a strong foundation for collaboration, extending beyond economics to areas such as technology, education, and cultural diplomacy.

A Strategic Imperative South Korea’s current alliances, while significant, are not without limitations. The evolving geopolitical landscape necessitates a broader approach to international relations. Türkiye’s proven loyalty during times of need, coupled with its strategic leadership in the Turkic world and blood brotherhood, offers South Korea a partner that understands the value of mutual support and long-term cooperation as a family.

By strengthening ties with Türkiye and engaging with the OTS, South Korea can position itself as a key player in a diversified alliance network that transcends traditional boundaries. This approach not only aligns with South Korea’s historical blood brotherhood with Türkiye but also recognizes the vast potential of the Turkic world as a partner in navigating the complexities of modern geopolitics.

Conclusion South Korea’s future lies in embracing a broader, more inclusive diplomatic strategy. Partnering with Türkiye becoming a very important world player and regional super power and the Turkic world is not merely a nod to shared history but a pragmatic move toward a diversified and resilient international presence. The world is far larger than the confines of the Korean Peninsula, and South Korea must seize the opportunity to collaborate with its “blood brothers” in Türkiye and the Turkic world. This path promises not only strengthened alliances but also a legacy of mutual respect, security shared prosperity, and enduring solidarity.

Ibrahim Kurtulus

Turkish Community Activist

Honorary South Korean Citizen

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내 사설:

한국은 튀르키예 및 튀르크 세계와의 외교적 지평을 넓혀야 한다

점점 복잡해지는 지정학적 경쟁과 변화하는 동맹이 특징인 세계에서, 한국은 국가 안보와 장기적 번영을 보장하기 위해 국제 파트너십을 다양화할 필요가 있습니다. 이를 위한 강력한 방안 중 하나는 튀르키예와 4억 명 이상의 사람들로 이루어진 튀르크 세계와의 관계를 더욱 강화하는 것입니다. 이들 관계는 역사적, 문화적, 전략적 유산에 뿌리를 두고 있으며, 이제 한국은 이러한 연결성을 재조명하고 상호 이익이 깊은 협력 관계를 수용해야 할 때입니다.

역사적 형제애: 신뢰의 기반

한국과 튀르키예 간의 유대는 단순한 외교적 형식이 아니라 세대를 초월한 깊은 관계입니다. 이 관계는 고대까지 거슬러 올라가며, 고구려와 돌궐 간의 동맹으로부터 시작되었습니다. 특히 한국전쟁 당시 튀르키예가 한국을 방어하기 위해 터키 여단을 파병하며 전례 없는 연대를 보여줌으로써 굳건해졌습니다. “한국-튀르키예 형제애”라는 용어는 이러한 특별한 관계를 표현하며, 종종 “혈맹”으로 묘사됩니다.

현재 이 유대는 튀르키예에서 깊은 공감을 불러일으킵니다. 튀르키예 한국전 참전용사들의 평균 연령이 이제 89세임에도 불구하고, 그들의 변함없는 신념은 “한국에 대한 공격은 곧 튀르키예에 대한 공격”이라는 것입니다. 이러한 강력한 정신은 한국 동료들에 대한 깊은 관심과 연결을 유지하고 있는 튀르키예의 젊은 세대들 사이에서도 반영됩니다. 이러한 지속적인 연대는 급변하는 세계에서 한국이 파트너십을 재평가할 수 있는 특별한 기회를 보여줍니다.

공유된 도전 과제와 기회

튀르키예와 한국은 러시아와 중국과 같은 강대국 이웃들과의 복잡한 관계를 관리하는 것을 포함하여 매우 유사한 도전 과제에 직면해 있습니다. 튀르크 세계는 튀르크국가기구(OTS)를 중심으로 지역에서 중요한 균형세력으로 떠오르고 있습니다. 방위, 에너지, 문화 협력 분야에서 OTS가 보여준 통합된 행동의 잠재력은 이들 국가 간의 협력 가능성을 강조합니다.

한국이 OTS와 협력하게 되면 상당한 이점을 얻을 수 있습니다. 이 블록은 한국의 기존 관계를 보완하는 대체적인 동맹 체계를 제공하며, 전략적 옵션을 다양화합니다. 튀르키예와 튀르크 세계와 협력함으로써 한국은 한반도에 국한된 협소한 이익에 의존하는 관계를 줄일 수 있습니다.

떠오르는 힘: 튀르크 세계

중앙아시아에서의 튀르키예의 이니셔티브는 튀르크 세계와의 관계를 강화하기 위한 전략적 비전을 보여줍니다. 최근 무역, 인프라, 문화 교류 분야에서의 협력은 자립과 세계적 영향력에 대한 지역의 집단적 의지를 증명합니다. 한국이 이 비전에 맞추어 협력하면 엄청난 이익을 얻을 수 있습니다. 튀르키예와 튀르크 국가들과의 긴밀한 관계는 새로운 시장에 접근하고, 경제 파트너십을 다양화하며, 한국의 국가 이익을 보호하는 데 중요한 보안 체계를 제공할 것입니다.

또한 이러한 재정렬은 이들 국가를 단결시키는 역사적 유대를 기리는 것이기도 합니다. 한국과 튀르크 세계 간의 문화적 친화성과 공유된 가치는 경제를 넘어 기술, 교육, 문화 외교와 같은 분야로 협력을 확장할 수 있는 강력한 기반을 제공합니다.

전략적 필연성

한국의 현재 동맹은 중요하지만, 한계도 존재합니다. 변화하는 지정학적 환경은 국제 관계에 대한 더 광범위한 접근 방식을 요구합니다. 튀르키예의 입증된 충성심, 튀르크 세계 내에서의 전략적 리더십, 그리고 혈맹으로서의 관계는 한국에게 상호 지원과 가족과 같은 장기적 협력의 가치를 이해하는 파트너를 제공합니다.

튀르키예와의 관계를 강화하고 OTS와 협력함으로써, 한국은 전통적인 경계를 초월한 다양화된 동맹 네트워크의 핵심 플레이어로 자리 잡을 수 있습니다. 이러한 접근 방식은 한국의 튀르키예와의 역사적 혈맹 관계와 일치할 뿐만 아니라 현대 지정학의 복잡성을 헤쳐 나가기 위한 파트너로서 튀르크 세계의 광대한 잠재력을 인식합니다.

결론

한국의 미래는 더 광범위하고 포괄적인 외교 전략을 수용하는 데 달려 있습니다. 세계적이고 지역적 강국으로 떠오르는 튀르키예 및 튀르크 세계와의 파트너십은 단순히 공유된 역사에 대한 존중일 뿐만 아니라 다양화되고 탄력적인 국제적 입지를 위한 실용적인 움직임입니다. 세계는 한반도의 경계를 훨씬 넘어서 있으며, 한국은 튀르키예와 튀르크 세계의 “혈맹”과 협력할 기회를 포착해야 합니다. 이러한 길은 강력한 동맹, 상호 존중, 안전, 공동 번영, 지속적인 연대의 유산을 약속합니다.

이브라힘 쿠르툴루스
튀르키예 커뮤니티 활동가

명예 대한민국 시민

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December 26, 2024
Turkey is the biggest winner
Key notes:
- The Russian military has packed up their equipment and left Syria.
- The rebels in Syria are now the official government.
- The Russians are having trouble getting their ships and equipment back home.
- The new government of Syria is not hostile to the West.
- Turkey is the biggest winner in the recent events.
- Russia and Iran are the losers.
- The war in Ukraine is still ongoing.
- Russia has recently attacked Ukraine.
Jake Broe, United States Air Force veteran who served as a Nuclear and Missile Operations Officer (13N) talks about the above topics in his video.

The video is about the recent events in Syria, Russia, and Ukraine. The video starts with the Russian military packing up their equipment and leaving Syria. The rebels in Syria are now the official government and they are politely asking the Russians to leave. The Russians are having trouble getting their ships and equipment back home. Paradoxically, they may have to pass through NATO member Türkiye’s territory. The video then talks about the new government of Syria and how they are not hostile to the West. The video also talks about the role of Turkey in the region and how they are the biggest winner in the recent events. The video ends with a discussion about the war in Ukraine and the recent attacks by Russia.
December 20, 2024
Haceroglu interviews the head of the Syrian Interim Government
Yalman Haceroglu interviews the head of the Syrian Interim Government affiliated with the Syrian National Coalition: The next stage requires a comprehensive national dialogue… and no sectarian quotas in Syria.
- Any new authority must start from the Geneva Statement of 2012 and UN dicession 2254 of 2015
- We aspire to form a technocratic government capable of building the state and meeting the needs of the people, far from any sectarian or national considerations
- Turkmen factions have played a prominent role since the beginning of the Syrian revolution in confronting the regime and fighting terrorism, including confronting the “PKK” and “PYD” organizations
- We seek for Syrian relations with regional countries to be based on mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs
- The new Syria will seek to build strategic partnerships and benefit from its geographical location to enhance its role in trade, energy and transportation
- The comprehensive role between receiving refugees and military, humanitarian and development efforts highlights Turkey’s steadfast commitment to the Syrian people
- We count on continued Turkish support to achieve political transition and democratic transformation in Syria, in a way that guarantees the security and stability that the Syrian people deserve.
Interview conducted by: Yalman Haceroğlu

The armed factions of the Syrian opposition were able, during military operations, and within a few days, to The removal of the Assad regime and the curtain falling on the Syrian political scene that lasted for more than five decades. Here, many questions arise regarding the future of stability in Syria.

1-Does the easy fall of the regime mean that the forces that seized power will have an easy task in achieving stability in Syria?

How will the future political equation be written and what will be the participation of different ethnicities, nationalities and sects in the political process.

We pose these questions and others to the head of the Syrian Interim Government of the Syrian National Coalition, Mr. Abdul Rahman Mustafa.

2-How do you view the future political process in Syria?

The future political process in Syria is a crucial axis for achieving sustainable stability and rebuilding the state on the foundations of democracy and social justice. With the fall of the Assad regime, it has become necessary for any authority that assumes the management of the country’s affairs to work to implement the spirit of international legitimacy resolutions, especially the Geneva Communiqué of 2012 and UN Resolution 2254 of 2015. This is represented by establishing a transitional government capable of managing the transitional phase and ensuring the transfer of power to the people in a peaceful and democratic manner.

The next stage requires launching a comprehensive national dialogue that brings together all components of Syrian society, without exception or discrimination, and includes political, societal and civil parties. This dialogue must be supported by a sincere will to build trust between all parties and develop a clear vision for the future.

Through this dialogue, a transitional government can be formed that expresses the aspirations of all Syrians, works to achieve justice, and rebuilds state institutions in a manner that serves the national interest.

In this context, transitional justice is considered an essential element to address the effects of conflict and hold accountable those responsible for human rights violations, while working to redress the harm suffered by victims and ensuring national reconciliation.

3-As the head of the Syrian Interim Government, what are the political foundations that will be followed in Syria to write the political equation through a government that includes different ethnicities and nationalities in Syria?

We look forward to a transitional period of rule, which is an essential step to start comprehensive reform of various sectors, including the military, political, legal, economic and social sectors. This should be done with the effective participation of different ethnicities, nationalities and sects to ensure fair and comprehensive representation that enhances national unity and establishes the principles of democracy and human rights.

Achieving stability in Syria requires a serious commitment from all parties to the political process based on international legitimacy decisions, in addition to building strong institutions in which human rights are respected and in which all Syrians participate on an equal footing. The ultimate goal must be to build a state of law and democracy that allows every individual the opportunity to live in dignity and justice. This commitment is the basis through which we can overcome the painful effects of the past and move forward towards a bright future for Syria and its people.

4-Do you think, Mr. President, that the next government will be a quota government like what happened in Iraq, and how can we compare the scenes in Iraq and Syria?
Many questions are being raised about the nature of the next government in Syria, and whether it will face the fate of governments based on sectarian quotas as is the case in Iraq.

In this context, he explained that the ambition in the new Syria is directed towards forming a technocratic government that represents all Syrians and is capable of building the state and meeting the needs of the people away from any sectarian or national considerations. The main goal is to establish a national unity government that works to remove the fears of Syrians and enhance their sense of equal citizenship.

Despite the great diversity that characterizes Syrian society, which includes different ethnicities and sects, the future vision seeks to elevate the status of citizenship as the basis for building the state, so that belonging to the homeland is above any other affiliation.

We seek to avoid the sectarian quota model that has proven in many countries that it can lead to internal divisions and conflicts instead of achieving stability.

The Syrian vision is to benefit from the lessons learned from regional experiences, with a focus on building a political system based on efficiency, justice and equality, far from any quotas that harm the national fabric. The challenges in Syria also require adopting a unified approach that works to build strong institutions capable of serving all Syrians without discrimination, ensuring national unity and sustainable development.

5-Will elements of the Syrian armed factions, including the Turkmen armed factions, participate in the political process?

The participation of the Syrian armed factions, including the Turkmen factions, in the future political process is vital to rebuilding Syria on democratic and inclusive foundations.

It is necessary to integrate these factions into a comprehensive national dialogue aimed at establishing a unified national military institution that goes beyond the mistakes of the past and is subject to civilian authority, while respecting human rights and refraining from interfering in political affairs.

Turkmen factions have played a prominent role since the beginning of the Syrian revolution in confronting the regime and fighting terrorism, including confronting organizations such as the PKK, PYD. Their continuation in these efforts reinforces the importance of involving them in the transitional phase to ensure the representation of all components of Syrian society and achieve the desired stability.

Involving these factions in the political process will contribute to building a national army that reflects the diversity of Syrian society, and will strengthen civil-military relations on sound foundations, thus preventing the recurrence of previous painful experiences. This approach is in line with the aspirations of the Syrian people to build a democratic state that respects human rights and ensures the participation of all spectrums in decision-making.

6-Mr. President, during your political work, you were the head of the Turkmen Council in Syria. First, how do you evaluate the Turkmen political activity in Syria?

The Turkmen are considered an integral part of the Syrian fabric and a fundamental component of the Syrian people, whose diversity extends across different ethnicities and sects. They have had a prominent and influential role since the start of the revolution for freedom and dignity, as they stood by their brothers from various components of Syrian society, making great sacrifices in order to achieve the aspirations of the Syrian people towards freedom and justice.

On the political level, the Turkmen Council and the Turkmen played an effective role in supporting the revolution, whether through political forums or through community and media activities. During my presidency of the Council, I was able to present the Turkmen voice in international conferences and forums, which contributed to clarifying the position of this component and its vital role in the Syrian revolution.

The Turkmen political activity is characterized by a strong will to work within the comprehensive national framework, with a constant emphasis on the principle of national partnership based on equality and respect for the rights of all. The Turkmen were not only supporters of the revolution, but they were an essential part of the political movement calling for the unity of Syrian lands and the building of a civil, democratic state that accommodates all its people without discrimination. In our assessment of the Turkmen political activity, we find that it succeeded in preserving its Syrian national identity, while at the same time working to enhance cooperation with other groups to achieve a common vision for the future of Syria. These efforts reflect an advanced political awareness and a firm belief that the solution in Syria requires unifying ranks and working together to achieve the aspirations of the Syrian people in all their groups.

7-Can we talk about the participation of the Turkmen people in Syria in the upcoming political process?
The Turkmen people have proven during the Syrian revolution that they are a fundamental and effective component, with a strong will to contribute to building the future of Syria. Their participation was not only in the military or societal field, but was also evident in their participation in the political movement and their pursuit of achieving the aspirations of the Syrians for freedom and justice.

The Turkmen were marginalized during the era of the defunct regime, like many components of Syrian society, but their participation in the revolution has re-shed light on their national role and active presence.

This historical marginalization must be addressed by ensuring their fair and effective participation in the transitional phase and in the future political process, to ensure the representation of all spectrums and achieve the balance required to build a democratic state.

We emphasize that building modern Syria requires a true national partnership that includes all components of society without exception, including the Turkmen. This partnership is the basis for strengthening national unity and consolidating the principles of citizenship, where every individual and component has a role in shaping the future of the country, regardless of race or sect.

The Turkmen, through their history, sacrifices and participation in the revolution, have proven that they are an essential part of the project to build a modern state that reflects the aspirations of the Syrian people in all their diversity. This next stage will be an opportunity to achieve justice and equality, and to ensure that the Turkmen and all components have a voice and an effective position in political and administrative decision-making.

8-How do you read the Syrian political scene in terms of Syria’s relationship with regional countries?

The current Syrian political scene in terms of relations with regional countries is going through a sensitive and complex phase as a result of years of conflict and foreign interventions. With the fall of the regime, Syria has a new opportunity to reformulate its relations with its regional surroundings on completely different foundations, based on the principles of good neighborliness, joint cooperation, and building strategic partnerships that serve mutual interests.

We seek for Syrian relations with regional countries to be based on mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs, with a focus on enhancing cooperation in the political, economic, and security fields. The new Syria, after all the tragedies it has gone through, must be a source of stability and peace in the region, and seek to build bridges of trust with all neighboring countries in a way that enhances regional security.

The relationship with regional countries will depend to a large extent on our ability to rebuild the Syrian state as a unified and stable entity that works to achieve the interests of its people, while at the same time respecting international agreements and working to enhance regional peace. We seek to transform Syria into a positive partner in the region, capable of contributing to resolving regional issues and enhancing stability rather than being an arena for conflicts.

In this context, it is imperative to emphasize the importance of cooperation with friendly regional countries to rebuild, strengthen the economy, coordinate to combat terrorism, and ensure the safe and dignified return of refugees. These efforts will be the basis for building solid and sustainable regional relations that will make Syria an effective and positive country in its surroundings.

9-If we draw the international political map, where will you find Syria’s position on this map?

Syria is a country with a geostrategic position and a long history, and has always been an important axis in the region and the world. However, the former regime weakened its position by transforming it into an authoritarian state that serves its narrow interests. We aspire to restore Syria to its natural role as an effective state in the international community, built on the foundations of democracy and justice, contributing to regional and international stability and peace.

The new Syria will seek to build strategic partnerships and take advantage of its geographical location to enhance its role in trade, energy, and transportation. Our goal is for Syria to be a model for a modern state that respects human rights, achieves the interests of its people, and restores its role as a source of stability and communication between the East and the West.

10-How do you view the Turkish government’s support for the Syrian people, which has sheltered millions of Syrians and those fleeing the brutality of the Assad regime, as well as the Turkish government’s political support for establishing stability in Syria?

It is impossible to talk about the Turkish role in supporting the Syrian people without referring to the great efforts made by the Republic of Turkey in various fields. It played a pivotal role in defeating terrorism and confronting terrorist organizations such as ISIS and PKK, PYD, as it provided significant military support to the Syrian National Army and the intelligent blood of the Turkish martyrs mixed with the blood of the martyrs of the National Army, who sacrificed side by side to liberate Syrian lands from terrorism and restore security to its people, which reflects the depth of brotherhood and solidarity between the Syrian and Turkish peoples.

In addition to its military efforts, Turkey opened its doors to receive millions of Syrian refugees who fled the brutality of the Assad regime and the horrors of war, and provided them with shelter and care, affirming its humanitarian and moral commitment to the Syrian people. Turkey also contributed significantly to building institutions in the liberated areas, which helped restore life to normal. These efforts included establishing schools to provide education for children, building hospitals to provide health care, and developing basic infrastructure to support the local population.

In addition, Turkey supported the Syrians in international forums, defending their legitimate demands before the world, and working to strengthen local governance and provide stability in liberated areas through development and administrative programs aimed at enabling Syrians to manage their own affairs.

This comprehensive role that combines receiving refugees, military, humanitarian, and development efforts highlights Turkey’s steadfast commitment to the Syrian people. We count on this support to continue to achieve political transition and democratic transformation in Syria, ensuring the security and stability that the Syrian people deserve.
December 20, 2024