Syria
Syria's interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa (left), Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) chief Mazloum Abdi (right). Graphic: Rudaw
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ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Mazloum Abdi, the commander-in-chief of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on Monday congratulated Ahmed al-Sharaa on his appointment as interim president of Syria, reported the pro-SDF North Press Agency (NPA).
Abdi expressed hope that Sharaa “would be able to lead Syria during this sensitive [transitional] period,” and reaffirmed “his forces’ support for any effort aimed at achieving stability and national unity” across the country.
Sharaa on Saturday visited Afrin where he met with locals, the majority of whom were Kurds. He pledged to eliminate armed groups and end security violations in the city, a representative from the Kurdish National Council (KNC/ENKS) who attended the meeting told Rudaw on Sunday.
Abdi on Monday described Sharaa’s visit as “a significant initiative” that would “encourage the safe return of the indigenous population” to the Kurdish-majority city and “promote dialogue.” The NPA also cited Abdi as inviting Sharaa to visit the cities in northeast Syria (Rojava).
The SDF, which acts as the de facto army of Rojava, has expressed a desire to align with Syrian government forces while maintaining its current organizational structure. "The SDF is keen on joining Syria’s defense services,” an informed SDF source told Rudaw last week, emphasizing that the group seeks to join “as a bloc” while preserving its formations.
Abdi acknowledged there were agreements and ongoing discussions with Damascus, but reiterated the SDF’s “commitment to Syria’s unity” based on principles of justice, equality, and non-discrimination.
He added that the SDF is working towards another visit to Damascus to discuss a clear and actionable plan, according to the NPA.
He pointed out that they are open to a national solution that all Syrians agree on, and that they are working on visiting Damascus again to discuss a clear plan of action.
Of note, the Damascus-affiliated security forces have not clashed with the SDF. On the contrary, discussions are underway between the new Syrian leadership and the Kurdish administration in Rojava about the future of the region, including the potential integration of the SDF into Syria’s security forces.
Earlier this month, Syria's Defense Minister, Murhaf Abu Qasra, confirmed that the new Syrian leadership is keen on resolving tangled issues with Rojava “through diplomatic means."
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