Turkey’s President Erdogan will meet Egypt’s President Sisi in Cairo on December 19 to discuss Syria, emphasizing Turkey’s influence after the Assad government fell. The visit signifies ongoing diplomatic efforts amidst various regional dynamics, including potential cooperation with Iran and HTS’s assurances for stability in Syria as both nations consider reconstruction efforts and refugee returns.
On December 19, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will arrive in Cairo to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, with a primary focus on the ongoing situation in Syria. Erdogan’s participation in the D-8 summit underscores Turkey’s growing regional influence amid the political shifts following the fall of the Assad government. Reports indicate that Egyptian officials are keen to engage in direct discussions with Erdogan, particularly concerning the emerging developments in Syria under the Syrian National Army’s leadership.
Erdogan has historically supported Syrian rebels, which has positioned Turkey as a significant power broker in the region. Recently, Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization chief, Ibrahim Kalin, was seen in Damascus, reinforcing Turkey’s role among Syrian opposition groups. Diplomatic communications have continued between the former al-Qaeda affiliate, Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and various Arab states, as HTS has offered assurances for a future inclusive governance in Syria.
The evolving dynamics of the Syrian conflict have caused concern among Arab nations, prompting Egypt to take a proactive role in diplomatic discussions. With Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also expected at the Cairo summit, there is a potential for dialogue between Erdogan and Iran’s leadership. This summit serves not only as a crucial meeting between Erdogan and Sisi but also as a platform for addressing broader regional stability issues related to Syria, reflecting on the ancient rift between Turkey and Egypt.
The stakes for both nations include potential humanitarian aid efforts, post-conflict reconstruction with significant financial implications, and the broader goal of facilitating the return of about three million displaced Syrian refugees. The past enmities between Turkey and Egypt may yield to collaborative efforts in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, wherein Syria acts as the focal point for renewed regional cooperation.
The article discusses President Erdogan’s upcoming visit to Cairo amidst significant developments in Syria following the recent toppling of the Assad government by HTS. The meeting signifies not only diplomatic engagement between Turkey and Egypt but also indicates shifting alliances and influence in the region. Turkey’s historical backing of Syrian rebels gives it leverage, while the uncertain political environment stemming from the Assad government’s fall poses both challenges and opportunities for neighboring states. Egypt’s role as a bridge in strengthening ties with Iran may mark a strategic pivot in the ongoing regional realignment.
Erdogan’s visit to Cairo represents a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern diplomacy, with Syria at the heart of discussions between Turkey and Egypt. The meeting highlights the potential for collaboration on stabilization efforts and the reconstruction of war-torn Syria. As both nations navigate their historically fraught relationship, the urgency of addressing the Syrian crisis could foster a new era of regional cooperation, balancing old rivalries with the pragmatic necessity of addressing contemporary challenges.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
