Bashar al-Assad cannot be part of Syria’s long-term future, Turkish prime minister said Saturday.
Speaking to foreign media representatives in Istanbul, Binali Yildirim said: “The question is will there be Assad or not? Assad is responsible for the deaths of 500,000 people.
“Could Syria go forward with Assad in the long term? Absolutely not.”
The premier said both U.S. and Russia know Assad would be a liability in the long term. “Today, the U.S. and Russia also know that Assad does not appear to be a unifier in the long term. For the transitional period, there can be talks so that a peaceful smooth transition can be made.
“[But] in our opinion, neither the PKK, nor Daesh nor Assad should be in Syria’s future for ensuring lasting peace. However, whether we want it or not Assad is one of the actors,” he said.