The Centre for Political and Foreign Affairs (CPFA) in Paris welcomed Abdullah Gül, 11th President of Turkey, for a discussion on Syria, the Middle East, and wider regional dynamics. The event, moderated by Renaud Girard, senior reporter at Le Figaro, formed part of CPFA’s series of high-level dialogues with former heads of state and policymakers to examine pressing international challenges.

In his remarks, President Gül reflected on the complexity of the Syrian conflict and its destabilising effects across the region. He addressed the interplay between regional rivalries, the humanitarian consequences of the war, and the urgent need for international cooperation to contain further escalation. He also spoke about Turkey’s perspective on developments in the Middle East, highlighting the interconnection between security, political reform, and economic stability.

The meeting offered participants the chance to engage directly with a statesman who had played a central role in Turkey’s regional diplomacy. His contribution provided valuable context for understanding the challenges facing both Syria and the broader Middle East at a time of profound uncertainty.