Ankara: The Turkish Ministry of Defense has announced the commencement of implementing the provisions of a security memorandum of understanding signed with Syria. This agreement focuses on training, technical support, and the restructuring of Syrian army units.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Turkish Ministry of Defense indicated in a media release that the security memorandum of understanding, signed on the 13th of this month, has entered its first phase of implementation. This agreement is aimed at enhancing Syria’s defense capabilities and fostering cooperation between the two countries in the military domain.
The Ministry elaborated that under the memorandum, the restructuring of the Syrian armed forces has gained momentum. Activities such as training, consultations, technical support, and reciprocal visits are underway in coordination with the Syrian Ministry of Defense. Technical visits are also being arranged for Turkish defense delegations to Syria to assess field needs and create a joint roadmap to bolster Syria’s defense capabilities.
The Ministry further mentioned that the head of the Training Department of the Syrian Ministry of Defense, along with a delegation, visited the National Defense University in Turkey. This visit is part of the continuing training activities initiated at the request of the Syrian Ministry of Defense. Turkey maintains that Syria’s stability is crucial for regional peace and continues to uphold the principle of “one state, one army” for Syria. The coming period is expected to see increased delegation visits and expanded cooperation.
The memorandum was signed by Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Gler and his Syrian counterpart, Murhaf Abu Qasra, during a Syrian delegation’s visit to Ankara earlier this month.
In a separate statement, the Turkish Defense Ministry expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, attributing it to the ongoing Israeli actions. The Ministry called for an immediate ceasefire and the facilitation of humanitarian aid into Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and stability in the region. Ankara reiterated its support for the Palestinian cause, advocating for a two-state solution as the path to lasting stability and peace.