Turkish Interior Minister Meets Syrian Interim Counterpart to Discuss Security and Repatriation
ali yerlikaya
Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya held a meeting in Ankara with Syrian Interim Government’s Interior Minister Enes Hattab, focusing on deepening bilateral cooperation, especially in the field of security and refugee repatriation.
The meeting took place at the Turkish Ministry of Interior and was later shared via Yerlikaya’s official social media account. He emphasized mutual efforts to address critical issues affecting both countries.
Key Points from the Meeting
Minister Yerlikaya stated that discussions included:
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Security cooperation between ministries
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Support and capacity-building for Syria’s internal security institutions
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Experience sharing and intensified training programs
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Coordination on the voluntary return of Syrians under temporary protection in Turkey
“We evaluated cooperation opportunities, particularly in the area of security, including providing support to Syrian security institutions, sharing expertise, and implementing intensified training programs. We also discussed coordinated efforts regarding the return of Syrians under temporary protection in our country,” Yerlikaya posted on social media.
Repatriation Still High on the Agenda
The meeting aligns with Ankara’s broader efforts to facilitate voluntary and safe returns of Syrians living in Turkey, as public debate continues over the long-term presence of millions of refugees. Turkish officials have recently intensified regional diplomacy and local security coordination in northern Syria to create “safe zones” for returnees.
Context
Turkey currently hosts over 3.2 million Syrian refugees under temporary protection. The issue of refugee repatriation has become increasingly central in domestic politics, especially as security, integration, and economic concerns grow.
The Syrian Interim Government, backed by the Syrian opposition and supported diplomatically by Turkey, governs parts of northern Syria not under the control of the Assad regime.
