Erdogan to Merkel: Political solution in Syria necessary for effective Daesh fight

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stressed that a political solution for Syria and stability in the war-torn country are necessary for an effective fight against Daesh, during a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the sidelines of the G20 summit in China.

Turkish presidential sources who requested anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to media said Erdogan stressed Sunday that Turkey "will never allow a terror corridor in our south and in Syria’s north".

He also informed Markel about Turkey’s Operation Euphrates Shield, launched Aug. 24 with the aim of improving security, supporting United States-led coalition forces, and eliminating the terror threat along Turkey’s border through Free Syrian Army fighters backed by Turkish armor, artillery, and jets.

Merkel reiterated Germany’s support for Turkey’s fight against all terrorist groups, especially Daesh.