Türkiye-US Working Group on Syria to Meet in Washington

The Türkiye-US Syria Working Group is set to convene in Washington, D.C., on May 20, 2025, under the joint leadership of Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yılmaz and his US counterpart, Christopher Landau. The meeting will be conducted in an interagency format, focusing on the critical priorities in the two countries' Syria policies.

Counterterrorism Efforts and Regional Cooperation

A central topic on the agenda is the ongoing fight against YPG/PKK, ISIS, and other terrorist organizations, with Türkiye expected to highlight its recent support for the Syrian administration in counterterrorism operations. The meeting will also explore regional efforts to stabilize Syria, including collaboration on the management of northeastern camps.

The US side is expected to provide updates on the consolidation of its military forces in Syria, reflecting a broader strategic shift in the region. Additionally, the talks will address the recent decision by US President Donald Trump to lift sanctions on Syria, with discussions likely to focus on the timeline and conditions for implementing this policy change.

The meeting comes at a critical moment, following President Trump's recent announcement that the US will lift its sanctions on Syria. This move signals a significant policy shift aimed at reducing tensions and facilitating economic recovery in the war-torn country. The Türkiye-US dialogue is expected to play a key role in shaping the future of Syria, particularly regarding territorial integrity, political stability, and the elimination of terrorist elements.