Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said this morning that the defense ministers and intelligence chiefs of Türkiye, Russia, Syria, and Iran will be meeting in Moscow on April 25. He noted that the last such meeting was on Dec. 28, where the ministers and intelligence chiefs resolved to continue the meetings. “Later, views were exchanged on the participation of Iran in these meetings. This was approved by the relevant authorities. As a continuation of that session, this time as a quartet, we are preparing for a meeting to be attended by defense ministers and intelligence chiefs,” said Akar, reported the Anadolu Agency. “On April 25, this meeting is scheduled to be held in Moscow. Our aim is to solve the problems through negotiations and bring peace and tranquility to the region as soon as possible.” Akar said several positive steps are expected after the meetings.
He added that Türkiye is determined in the fight against terrorism and aims to ensure Syrians in Türkiye return to their land voluntarily, safely and with dignity. “We have Syrian brothers and sisters with whom we are together, whether they are in Türkiye or Syria. It is out of the question for us to take any decision that will put them in trouble,” the Turkish defense chief said, referring to the Turkish-sponsored opposition.
Later, the Syrian Ministry of Defense issued a statement confirming the fact of the meeting.
