Erdogan: We closely monitor developments in Syria – “No support for rebels”

She closely monitors developments in Syria and takes all measures to prevent negative developments within her national priorities, Turkish President said. Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed Montenegrin President Jakov Milatovic to the presidential palace in Ankara, and after their meeting he said: ” We are closely monitoring developments that have suddenly erupted in our neighbouring Syria in recent days. As Turkey, we are ready today, as in the past to contribute to the destruction of the fire in our region. “In the context of our country’s national security priorities, we are monitoring developments in the field at all times and taking all measures to prevent any negative actions. “Our greatest desire is to maintain the territorial integrity of Syria and end instability by consensus according to the legitimate demands of the Syrian people.” As regards Turkey’s relations with Montenegro, Tayyip Erdogan said the two countries are very close to meeting the $250 million target in the annual volume of bilateral trade, while Turkish construction companies have already completed 62 projects in Montenegro amounting to $500 million. The Turkish president also said Turkish airlines link Montenegro to the world and contribute to the development of tourism. He also noted that the Turkish Co-operation and Coordination Organisation (ICS) has implemented more than 500 projects and activities in Montenegro, totalling over $30 million, and the Turkish Cultural Centre “Yunus Emre” has offered Turkish education to more than 2,500 students since its establishment. “We do not support the rebels” Turkey did not give its permission or support a Syrian guerrilla operation against President Bashar al-Assad’s forces in northwestern Syria, a Turkish official told the Reuters agency tonight. “Of course, we are closely monitoring developments in Syria from the point of view that it concerns our national security directly. As regards the operation in progress in northwestern Syria, there is neither permission nor support from our country,” said this source. The official also said that the Islamist organization Hayat Tahrir al Sam (HTS) designated “terrorist” by Turkey, the US, Russia and other countries, did not receive orders or instructions from Turkey.