• Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is seeking to realign ties with regional powers, particularly Turkey.
• The leaders of Turkey and Syria discussed strategies against Kurdish militants and enhancing security cooperation.
• The new Syrian administration is focusing on economic recovery and the return of refugees, urging the lifting of international sanctions.

In a significant diplomatic move, Syria's interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa met with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara to discuss a range of issues vital to the future of Syria following the upheaval caused by the civil war. The discussions, which took place on February 4, highlighted a growing partnership aimed at enhancing security and cooperation between the two nations, particularly concerning the Kurdish fighters operating in northeastern Syria.

Sharaa's visit was his second foreign trip since taking office, following his recent meeting with NPR. Erdogan expressed Turkey's readiness to support Syria's new leadership in combating both the Islamic State and Kurdish militants, emphasizing the urgency of cooperation. "I told al-Sharaa we are ready to provide the necessary support to Syria in the fight against all kinds of terrorism," Erdogan stated during a joint news conference, referring to militant groups such as the PKK and the YPG, which Turkey views as terrorist organizations.

The leaders also broached the subject of economic ties, with Sharaa indicating his desire to establish a "strategic partnership" with Turkey. Turkish industries are eyeing expansion opportunities in Syria, which could significantly increase trade between the two countries, as reported by Reuters.

Both leaders acknowledged the need for improved stability in Syria to foster the return of approximately 3 million Syrian refugees currently residing in Turkey. Erdogan optimistically suggested that the voluntary return of these refugees could accelerate as Syria stabilizes, marking a significant shift in the region following years of conflict.

Furthermore, Erdogan pledged to advocate for the lifting of international sanctions imposed on Syria during the regime of former president Bashar al-Assad, highlighting the critical role Arab and Muslim nations will play in supporting Sharaa's government during this transitional phase. "It is important for Arab and Muslim countries to support the new Damascus government – financially and otherwise," Erdogan remarked.

As Syria's political landscape evolves, Ahmed al-Sharaa's administration, which emerged following the ousting of Assad, is prioritizing the establishment of a stable political framework, potentially leading to a multiparty system, as Sharaa indicated in an earlier address. He emphasized that the future of Syria should not return to one dominated by a single individual, hinting at a comprehensive reformation of the country's governance approach.

This latest meeting signifies not just a tactical alliance against shared threats but underscores a broader effort to redefine relationships in a region still recovering from years of conflict.

For more detailed insights, visit Al Jazeera.