Syria (Washington Insider Magazine) – Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is seen by the Republican People’s Party (CHP), Turkey’s biggest opposition party, as the principal legitimate authority for handling bilateral matters. The CHP’s shadow cabinet’s foreign minister, Prof. Dr. Ilhan Uzgel, stressed this stance in a recent interview with Rudaw.
Assad’s Regime as the Focal Point
“The legitimate power of Syria is Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Our priority is to engage with Assad’s regime to resolve the problems,” Uzgel stated. He noted that while Syria is more than just Assad, international diplomacy involving major powers like the United States, Russia, and Iran is crucial for a comprehensive solution.
Historical Missteps in Policy
According to Rudaw. Uzgel criticized Turkey’s past approach to the Syrian conflict, highlighting mistakes from the outset. “The policy was flawed from the beginning, with an attempt to overthrow Assad with American support. Such actions were not in Turkey’s or the region’s best interests,” he said. He argued that Turkey should have avoided direct involvement in Syria’s internal conflict.
Proposed Diplomatic Engagements
Responding to media reports about a potential meeting between CHP Leader Ozgur Ozel and Assad, Uzgel confirmed that a formal request has been made to Damascus. “We are awaiting their response. The process is sensitive and unlike a diplomatic visit to Europe, requiring more time,” he explained.
AKP Government’s Inaction
Uzgel criticized the ruling AKP government for its lack of a clear plan to resolve the Syrian refugee crisis and the broader Syrian issue. He stated that the CHP aims to address these unresolved issues through dialogue and constructive proposals.
Assad’s Precondition for Talks
Addressing Assad’s demand for the withdrawal of Turkish forces from Syria as a precondition for any meeting, Uzgel remarked, “This condition is not new. However, for the sake of truth, negotiations should proceed.”
Position on Syrian Opposition Fighters
Uzgel expressed opposition to meeting with Syrian opposition fighters, controlled by Turkish intelligence. “We are against such a structure. If the CHP comes to power, we will work on resolving the issue of Syrian opposition fighters. Our focus will be on engaging with the legitimate regime of Damascus,” he said.
Future Relations with the PYD
When asked about potential meetings with the Democratic Union Party (PYD) if CHP comes to power, Uzgel firmly stated, “We will not engage with anyone other than Bashar Assad’s regime. For us, Assad is the legitimate authority in Syria.”
Complexity of the Syrian Issue
Uzgel underscored that solving the Syrian crisis involves multiple factors and actors. “International diplomacy is essential. Syria’s issue cannot be resolved without engaging with global powers. Assad is a significant part of the solution, but broader international efforts are needed to address human and migrant issues,” he concluded.
