SDF leader affirms joint committees with Damascus moving forward Hopes to make ceasefire with Türkiye permanent

Mazloum Abdi, leader of the Syrian Democratic Forces (a terrorist organisation linked to the PKK/YPG – editor’s note), stated that lifting sanctions on Syria is a positive step that will have a beneficial impact on the country’s overall economic situation.

Speaking about Syria’s future after the fall of the regime, Abdi said the next stage represents an opportunity to build a new state based on decentralisation and justice, ensuring the participation of all Syrian communities in official institutions without exception, Caliber.Az reports via Syrian media.

Regarding the agreement he signed with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, Abdi confirmed that it remains in force and is being fully observed by both parties. He noted that joint committees have been formed by both sides, which will soon begin meetings to discuss mechanisms for implementing the agreement.

He added that talks about federalism are perceived painfully in Damascus, as it is seen there as a threat to the country’s unity, although Kurdish demands are not aimed at separation.

Abdi also commented on Syria’s official reaction to the recent conference titled “Kurdish Unity,” stating that President Ahmed Al-Sharaa’s response was hasty due to a misunderstanding of the political document adopted at the conference.

Abdi further reported that the ceasefire regime with Türkiye has been in effect for almost two and a half months, noting that the current truce is temporary and conditional. The SDF is working to transform it into a permanent ceasefire that will maintain stability in northern Syria.

He explained that the ceasefire involves several delicate security issues that require Türkiye’s attention, particularly concerning contact lines and military positions in conflict zones. He added that one of the issues raised in negotiations is the integration of the SDF into the Syrian army, which Türkiye is focusing on in its search for sustainable security solutions.

Regarding the possibility of a meeting between himself and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Abdi denied any current plans for such a visit but emphasised that he would not oppose a meeting in principle if the appropriate circumstances arise.

By Tamilla Hasanova