Turkish National Defence Minister Yaşar Güler hosted high-level Syrian officials in Ankara on Wednesday, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral military cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

The Syrian delegation — led by Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani, Defense Minister Murhef Abu Kasra and Intelligence Chief Hussein Salameh— was on an official visit to Türkiye as part of ongoing efforts to deepen strategic ties.

The meeting comes after months of negotiations on a comprehensive military cooperation agreement, initiated following the ousting of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December. The newly formed Syrian government has been working to restore stability across the country after assuming power.

Ankara, which has developed cordial relations with the new leadership in Damascus, has previously extended operational and military assistance to support Syria in combating ISIS and other terrorist groups. Turkish officials reaffirmed their commitment to backing Syria’s political unity and territorial integrity, pledging continued training and technical assistance at Damascus’ request to enhance its counterterrorism capabilities.

Following the talks, Minister Güler and Defence Minister Abu Kasra signed the “Joint Training and Advisory Memorandum of Understanding,” formalizing the framework for expanded cooperation between the two nations’ armed forces.

Officials from both sides hailed the agreement as a milestone in bilateral relations and a step toward greater regional security and stability. (ILKHA)