Commercial flights between Turkey and Syria resumed after 13 years with Turkish Airlines’ flight TK0846 from Istanbul to Damascus. Passengers celebrated during the flight, reflecting joy and hope for Syria’s future. The resumption follows significant political changes in Syria, particularly after the recent rebellion that ended Assad’s rule. Turkey commits to financial assistance for Syria’s recovery and infrastructure.
On Thursday, commercial flights between Turkey and Syria resumed after a 13-year hiatus, marked by Turkish Airlines’ inaugural flight from Istanbul to Damascus. Turkish media showcased scenes of Syrian families celebrating, swaddled in their national flag, while singing pro-opposition songs prior to boarding flight TK0846. The atmosphere on the plane was jubilant, with passengers passionately singing the uprising anthem, and one individual in tears as he anticipated departure.
Fuad Abdulhalid, a passenger who has resided in Turkey for 12 years, expressed his feelings of nostalgia: “I missed Syria and am happy to fly back.” Another traveler, Nail Beyazid, who had fled Syria, shared his optimism. Beyazid remarked, “We are very happy that (Syria) was liberated, and the situation is very good,” while reflecting on loss and the hope of returning to see what remains of his previous life.
The resumption of flights occurs after a recent rebel offensive that ousted Syrian President Bashar Assad, prompting Arab and Western nations to restore diplomatic ties with Syria’s new authorities, predominantly represented by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Earlier this month, a Royal Jordanian Airlines flight had also marked the first international commercial arrival in Syria since Assad’s removal.
Turkey, as a significant ally of the new Syrian authorities, has indicated a commitment to economic investments and support for the country’s struggling electricity and energy sectors. Turkish Airlines’ CEO, Bilal Eksi, announced plans for three weekly flights between Istanbul and Damascus. These developments followed an official visit to Ankara by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani, who engaged with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other key officials.
The resumption of commercial flights between Turkey and Syria comes against the backdrop of significant geopolitical changes following a successful rebellion that led to the ousting of President Bashar Assad. Syria is experiencing a shift in control, now governed by new authorities that have begun to establish diplomatic relationships with previously severed ties from multiple countries. This reestablishes crucial connectivity between Syria and its neighboring countries, aiding in economic resurgence.
In summary, the recent restart of commercial flights between Turkey and Syria signifies a notable shift in diplomatic relationships following the ousting of President Bashar Assad. With passengers expressing joy and optimism about returning home, this development indicates both the strengthening ties between Turkey and Syria’s new authorities and potential revitalization efforts within Syria. The establishment of regular flights will facilitate increased communication and support between the two nations.
Original Source: apnews.com