Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı on Turkiye-EU Collaboration for Syria’s Stability and Reconstruction
On December 17, 2024, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı, co-founder of Ankara Global Advisory Group joined TGRT TV’s Gün Ortası program, hosted by Gülden Kalecik Demirtaş to discuss the European Union's visit to Turkiye and its implications for Syrian affairs. Prof. Bağcı elaborated on Turkiye’s unique geopolitical position and its potential to drive stability and development in Syria.
Key Insights from Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı:
Turkiye’s Role in Refugee Repatriation and EU Collaboration: Prof. Bağcı emphasized the necessity of creating viable conditions for Syrian refugees to return home. He discussed the EU's potential shift in financial support from Turkiye to direct investment in Syrian infrastructure, fostering sustainable livelihoods. This, he argued, would not only alleviate the financial and social burdens on host nations like Turkiye but also pave the way for a more structured and humane approach to resolving the refugee crisis.
Geopolitical Leadership in Preventing Extremism: Turkiye’s proactive involvement in Syrian governance is essential to preventing the establishment of extremist regimes, such as a Taliban-like administration, in the region. Prof. Bağcı highlighted Turkiye’s advisory role, particularly in guiding Syrian leadership towards a democratic, transparent, and inclusive administration. By doing so, Turkiye aligns with the EU’s goals while asserting its position as a pivotal geopolitical actor in the Middle East.
Securing Borders and Combating Terrorism: With its extensive shared border, Turkiye is uniquely positioned to influence Syrian stability. Prof. Bağcı outlined the importance of Turkiye’s cooperation with Syria’s central government to address critical security issues, including combating the PKK-PYD and ensuring the disarmament of militant factions. Turkiye’s transformation into a “security producer” signals a strategic shift, where it actively contributes to regional stability and reduces its dependence on external powers.
Economic Revival Through Infrastructure and Trade: Bağcı underscored Turkiye’s expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects as a cornerstone of Syrian reconstruction. He detailed how Turkiye could lead efforts in rebuilding roads, telecommunications, and power networks while strengthening trade routes. Initiatives like the Iraq Development Road Project further illustrate how Turkiye could serve as a key economic corridor, fostering regional integration and unlocking growth opportunities for Syria and neighboring nations.
Turkiye's Vision: Leading Syria Towards Stability and Prosperity
Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı concluded his insights by emphasizing Turkiye's pivotal role in shaping Syria's future through diplomacy, security, and economic development. He highlighted the country's transformation from a period of setbacks into a regional leader poised to drive positive change. By working closely with the European Union and fostering cooperation with Syria's new government, Turkiye is strategically positioned to ensure the return of refugees, prevent extremism, and lead reconstruction efforts.
This forward-looking approach not only strengthens Turkiye’s regional influence but also lays the groundwork for a stable and prosperous Syria, benefiting all stakeholders involved. Prof. Bağcı’s remarks underline the importance of seizing this historic opportunity to turn challenges into a new era of growth and collaboration.
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