Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to visit Cairo to meet President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, focusing primarily on the situation in Syria following the fall of Assad’s government. This visit comes as both nations navigate their historical rivalry towards potential cooperation, with discussions likely covering political influence and economic reconstruction amidst evolving regional dynamics.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is scheduled to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in Cairo, with a significant focus on the ongoing situation in Syria. The summit will coincide with the D-8 summit of developing nations in the Egyptian capital on December 19. Following the recent toppling of Bashar al-Assad’s government due to military advances by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Egyptian officials have emphasized the importance of Erdogan’s visit to address concerns regarding Syria’s new governance.
Erdogan, who has been a long-standing supporter of Syrian rebels, will be accompanied by Turkey’s National Intelligence Organisation (MIT) chief, Ibrahim Kalin, who recently visited Damascus, thereby reinforcing Turkey’s influence in the region. The dynamics in Syria have changed notably, with the fall of the Assad regime prompting Arab states, including Egypt, to reassess their relations and strategies in dealing with the rising influence of HTS, which has faced international condemnation as a terror group.
The Cairo meeting aims to foster dialogue between Erdogan and other regional leaders, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, emphasizing Sisi’s role as a potential mediator within this evolving geopolitical landscape. This summit signifies the first formal discussion between an Arab leader and Erdogan since the recent shifts in Syria’s power structure and reflects efforts among regional powers to navigate a complex and uncertain transition.
Despite historical tensions, including their opposing roles during Libya’s civil war, both Erdogan and Sisi have moved towards reconciliation. Their discussions will likely cover not only immediate military and political concerns regarding Syria but also future economic reconstruction efforts, with Turkey aiming for stability to facilitate the return of Syrian refugees.
The backdrop of Erdogan’s upcoming visit to Cairo involves significant shifts in the Syrian political landscape following the ousting of the Assad regime by HTS forces. Turkey’s involvement in supporting Syrian rebels dates back to the beginning of the Syrian civil war, where the nation has positioned itself as a key player in shaping the future of Syria. As various regional actors reassess their positions following the recent military developments in Syria, Egypt seeks to engage Turkey to ensure stability and curtail the influence of extremist factions in the region. Furthermore, the geopolitical implications tie back to historical rivalries and alliances evolving since the Arab Spring, complicating the dialogue in the current diplomacy efforts.
In conclusion, President Erdogan’s visit to Egypt represents a pivotal moment in addressing the Syrian crisis, reflecting a recalibration of regional relations. With the focus on establishing stability post-Assad, the discussions are expected to encompass both immediate military concerns and long-term reconstruction efforts. The convergence of interests between Turkey and Egypt illustrates a strategic shift in diplomatic relations, highlighting the complex interplay of historical tensions and current geopolitical realities.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
