Iran, Russia Role Key to Syria solution: Turkish Foreign Minister

The Turkish foreign minister says a “permanent solution” to the ongoing crisis in Syria cannot be achieved without the participation of Iran and Russia, Turkish foreign minister said, according to Press TV.

 “Without Russia’s contribution, there cannot be a permanent solution in Syria. We keep saying this. The same goes for Iran, too, with which we also have to boost our relations in this regard,” Mevlut Cavusoglu said in an interview with the Russian Sputnik new agency.

 The minister also ruled out any “military solution” to the ongoing crisis in Syria.

 “Unfortunately, the situation in Syria is getting worse. These problems cannot be solved in the short term through fighting alone. They cannot be solved single-handedly, either. That is why, we have to work together for a political solution and a ceasefire,” Cavusoglu said.

The top Turkish diplomat noted that Turkey and Russia may have “differences of opinion,” but the essential aim is to bring mutual relations “to a level that is even better than before.”

Media reports indicate that Ankara could change its stance towards Syria and form an alliance with Russia and Iran to battle terrorists in Syria.

On July 13, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said his country aims to develop good relations with Syria and Iraq.

Since taking office in May, Yildirim has repeatedly said that Turkey needs to “increase its friends and decrease its enemies,” an apparent tacit admission that past policies have left Ankara sidelined.

Turkey has long been a staunch opponent of Syrian government, allowing gunmen to freely slip into the Arab country through its borders.  The policy had put Turkey on a collision course with Syria’s allies, including Iran and Russia.

The apparent change of policy comes in the wake of recent Turkish efforts to warm relations with Russia.

H.M