Commercial flights between Turkey and Syria have resumed after 13 years, with Turkish Airlines operating flights from Istanbul to Damascus. Passengers celebrated their return, reflecting on personal connections and historical contexts. This development follows significant political changes in Syria, and Turkey plans to invest in the country’s economy and energy sectors, enhancing bilateral relations.
On Thursday, commercial flights between Turkey and Syria commenced for the first time in 13 years, marked by a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul to Damascus. Turkish media reported emotive scenes as Syrian families celebrated, singing revolutionary songs and waving their national flag before boarding flight TK0846. Once on board, emotions ran high, as some passengers sang of freedom and reflected on their connection to Syria.
Fuad Abdulhalid, a passenger who has resided in Turkey for 12 years, expressed his immense joy at being able to return, stating, “I missed Syria and am happy to fly back.” Another traveler, Nail Beyazid, looked with optimism towards the future, having not returned since escaping Syria. He noted the significance of the political changes, sharing hopes of reacquainting with lost possessions, stating, “We are very happy that (Syria) was liberated, and the situation is very good.”
The resumption of flights follows a recent shift in the political landscape after a rebel offensive resulted in the ousting of President Bashar Assad, leading Arab and Western nations to restore diplomatic efforts with Syria’s interim administration, represented by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Earlier in the month, a Royal Jordanian Airlines flight was the first international commercial service to land in Damascus since Assad’s removal.
Turkey’s partnership with Syria’s new authorities indicates a stabilization effort, with Turkey pledging to enhance investments in Syria’s economy and support its struggling energy and electricity sectors. Turkish Airlines has announced that it will operate three flights weekly between the two cities, following diplomatic discussions between Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The resumption of commercial flights between Turkey and Syria marks a significant milestone after a prolonged hiatus of 13 years. The recent political landscape in Syria has drastically changed following the removal of President Bashar Assad, as various nations re-establish diplomatic relations with the new powers in the region. This development reflects both a renewed focus on international engagement and the potential for economic revitalization in Syria, particularly with Turkey’s role as an influential ally.
In summary, the resumption of flights between Turkey and Syria symbolizes a hopeful shift in relations following over a decade of diplomatic isolation. Celebrations among passengers highlight the emotional significance of these flights for returning refugees. As Turkey commits to supporting Syria’s economy, the future of both countries’ relations holds prospects for improvement and rehabilitation in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
