ANKARA, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- More than 550,000 Syrian refugees have returned from Türkiye to Syria since Dec. 8, 2024, following the fall of the previous government, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Tuesday.
"Thanks to these developments, more than 550,000 Syrians have returned to their country since Dec. 8, 2024," Fidan said during a parliamentary session on the 2026 budget.
Looking ahead, Fidan stressed the importance of preserving Syria's territorial integrity and establishing long-term security.
He called for the removal of all terrorist elements, the unification of armed factions under a single national army, and the formation of an inclusive government representing all segments of Syrian society.
He also called for international support for Syria's reconstruction. "With active backing from the global community, we aim to ensure sustainable returns through reconstruction and economic development," Fidan said. ■
