ANKARA, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that his country would support Syria's transition process, and contribute to the country's recovery and stability.
"We are supporting the Syrian people in managing the transition process smoothly, without any setbacks along the way," the state-run TRT broadcaster quoted Erdogan as saying.
"Drafting a constitution is one critical step in rebuilding the state," Erdogan told journalists on his return flight from Cairo, where he attended the 11th Summit of the Developing Eight Organization for Economic Cooperation.
"For this, we have initiated communication with key figures in Syria's new administration."
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is set to visit Syria soon to discuss creating a "collaborative framework" for Syria's future, he said, adding, "If Syria establishes a truly stable structure with this new formation, in my view, it will hold a very strong position in the Islamic world."
He noted that Türkiye and Syria would collaborate on multiple sectors, including defense, education, and energy.
"Currently, Syria is facing serious challenges in energy, but we aim to resolve these issues swiftly," Erdogan said.
With years of conflict devastating Syria's infrastructure and cities, Erdogan underscored the importance of reconstruction. "To mend the wounds, it is essential to rebuild cities and create sustainable livelihoods," he said, pointing to plans for new housing, energy facilities, and initiatives in agriculture and livestock as priorities. ■
