Turkey follows generous policy for Syrians: Dutch min.

The Netherlands’ foreign trade and development cooperation minister on Wednesday hailed Turkey’s “generous policy” in protection of Syrians.

“Turkey carries out a generous policy in protection of Syrians in the country,” Sigrid Kaag said in a written statement.

Kaag added that Turkey contributed largely in reduction of the number of irregular migrants, as well as the drowning cases in the sea.

She made her remarks upon a parliamentary question by Dutch lawmakers on the deal between Turkey and the EU in March 2016, which aims to stem the irregular migration flow through the Aegean Sea by taking stricter measures against human traffickers and improving conditions for over 3 million Syrians in Turkey.

Kaag said the EU Facility for Refugees in Turkey (FRIT) provided many Syrian children with education, and ensured livelihood of Syrian families in Turkey.

“That Syrians consciously choose to stay in Turkey instead of the EU proves that the condition in Turkey is good for Syrians,” she stated.

According to UNCHR figures, the number of Syrians residing in Turkey has risen to 3.5 million in August, which stood at 3.4 million at the beginning of the year, Kaag said.

“Apart from this, Turkey takes other migrant groups and vulnerable people under protection, as well,” she said, adding that the number was 2.7 million in 2015 and it rose to 3.7 million in 2018.

“According to these figures, we need to continue supporting Turkey through FRIT,” she said.

The Netherlands understands Turkey’s fight against irregular migration and its efforts to intensify border security in conflict zones, Kaag stressed.