Turkiye will side with minorities if their rights are violated in Syria.

Axar.az reports that this statement was made by Turkiye's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan during a press conference following talks with his Belgian counterpart Bernard Kwanten in Ankara.

He noted that Turkiye's foreign policy is based on several principles.

"We focus on the specific actions of the authorities. For example, during the previous administration, Sunni Arabs were subjected to pressure. We welcomed them and always opened our doors to the persecuted. If any groups or minorities in Syria face challenges and cannot find their place in the future, we will act in the same way. This could include Nusayris, Alevis, Yazidis, Christians, or anyone. Turkiye is their protector and guardian."

At the same time, he emphasized that the new Syrian administration is highly sensitive to the interests of all religious and social groups in the country:

"I hope no negative incidents occur in this regard. However, if they do, our president's stance is clear. We are on the side of the oppressed and will stand in solidarity with them."

He also stated that Turkiye is making efforts to ensure that no one faces difficulties in Syria and continues to monitor the authorities' actions closely.