Erdogan and Putin discuss urgent solutions for Syrian crisis

Erdogan emphasized that Turkey supports Syria's territorial integrity and aims for a fair and lasting resolution of the conflict. The statement noted that the Turkish president highlighted the need to expand diplomatic efforts in the region and involve the Syrian authorities in the political resolution process.

"Stating that Türkiye is working for a fair and lasting solution in Syria while also continuing to support Syria’s territorial integrity, President Erdoğan highlighted the importance of making more room for diplomacy in the region, and underscored that the Syrian regime should engage in the political solution process," the statement said.

Erdogan also noted that Turkey would continue its decisive actions against "the terrorist organization PKK and its extensions, who are trying to take advantage of the recent developments in Syria."

Meanwhile, President Putin, as reported by the RIA agency, stressed the need for a swift end to "terrorist aggression" in Syria and full support for the legitimate authorities' efforts to restore stability and constitutional order.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), since Wednesday, at least 514 people, including 91 civilians, have died in clashes between Islamist rebels and Syrian government forces. The regime of Bashar al-Assad is supported by Russia and Iran.

Islamist rebels launched an offensive against government forces, capturing areas including Aleppo. Prior to the offensive, they controlled most of the Idlib province. Rebel groups supported by Turkey, which control northwest Syria, are also participating in the battles against government forces.