Hakan Fidan: PKK members are fighting against us with the YPG

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan assessed current developments at a conference held at the Rome-based Institute of International Relations, one of Italy's leading think tanks. Speaking at the meeting, moderated by IAI Director Nathalie Tocci, Fidan stated that Turkey and Italy, as NATO allies and G20 partners, contribute to stability in the Mediterranean and Africa. Describing Turkey's partnership with Italy as "like the wings of an eagle in the Mediterranean and North Africa," Fidan emphasized that this is not an alliance of interests, but a strategic formation born of shared history and geography.

Fidan noted that Turkey is NATO's second-largest military power and that Italy's expertise offers greater potential in defense, industry, trade, investment, energy security, climate change, and science and technology. He said that cooperation in Africa could be expanded in line with the shared vision of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Fidan noted that Italy's support for Turkey's EU membership was valuable and noted that the EU struggles to collaborate on foreign policy.

Fidan stated that the international community must recognize Israel's crimes against humanity regarding Gaza, stating that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Referring to the Russia-Ukraine war, Fidan stated that a solution is possible through diplomacy, citing the Istanbul talks as an example. He emphasized the importance of Türkiye's presence at the table in Europe's security architecture.

Fidan stated that stability in Syria is critical for Europe and that the Damascus government must be supported. He noted that the YPG is seeking to exploit the crisis Israel has created in Syria and highlighted the threat to Turkey. He said, “We are currently seeing numerous PKK members from Turkey, Iraq , and Iran working with the YPG. They are not there for Syria; they are there to fight against us. Therefore, as long as this threat and certain capabilities exist, we cannot be complacent and must take the necessary measures.”

Fidan addressed the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, stating that Türkiye would swiftly take steps toward normalization with Armenia following the final signatures. He noted that the parties had made some progress on the Ukraine issue and stated that the Donetsk issue was the most critical point for a solution. He stated that the US should exert greater effort in this process.

Minister Fidan stated that Israel wants to see neighbors divided and weak, saying that future Israeli leaders must build a future based on mutual prosperity, security, and dignity. He emphasized that the international community must fulfill its commitments to ensure stability, unity, and prosperity in Syria.