September 4, 2018
The Secretary of State’s newly appointed Special Representative for Syria Engagement, Ambassador James Jeffrey and Special Envoy for Syria and Near Eastern Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) Joel Rayburn, met with Turkish counterparts to discuss their new role and underscore the importance of continued U.S.-Turkish cooperation in resolving the Syrian conflict in a manner consistent with UNSCR 2254. Ambassador Jeffrey reiterated the U.S. position that a Syrian military offensive in Idlib will be an escalation of the Syrian conflict that will risk the lives of humanitarian workers and Syrian civilians, destroy civilian infrastructure, imperil the prospects for a political settlement in Syria, fuel support for terrorism, and harm regional stability. He commended the Turkish Government and people for their continued compassion for those affected by the Syrian conflict.
