Ankara: The Syrian government is expressing optimism that "rational voices" within the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) will champion the implementation of a pivotal agreement aimed at integrating the SDF into state institutions. This development comes as part of efforts to reaffirm Syria's territorial unity and counter any division attempts.
According to Anadolu Agency, Qutaiba Idlbi, who serves as the director of the Americas at the Syrian Foreign Ministry, emphasized the significance of the March 10 agreement, which was signed by Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and a senior SDF leader. The agreement outlines the integration of SDF forces into Syrian state frameworks, a move intended to serve the collective interests of the Syrian people, including Kurdish communities in the northeast.
Idlbi underscored the Syrian government's commitment to implementing the agreement by the year's end. Recent discussions in Paris, involving Syria, the US, and France, focused on strategies to expedite the agreement's execution.
Idlbi described the government's proposals for northeastern Syria as practical, acknowledging existing ties between the SDF and local Kurdish communities while asserting that the SDF does not represent the entire population there. He highlighted the historical presence of Kurds in Syria and called for lessons from their long-standing experience to foster coexistence and integration within the broader Syrian identity.
Addressing issues of trust and leadership within the SDF, Idlbi noted a lack of unified decision-making as a barrier to progress. He pointed out that internal disagreements among SDF leaders complicate the implementation of the agreement.
Moreover, Idlbi warned against integrating loyalists of the previous Assad regime into the SDF, citing potential conflicts as seen in Latakia and Suwayda. He criticized the SDF for not fulfilling obligations, such as withdrawing from specific areas and relinquishing control of the Tishrin Dam to the government.
Looking forward, Idlbi expressed ambitions to model the integration process in Deir ez-Zor, a region with a strong government presence, as an example for other areas in northeast Syria.
Emphasizing the necessity of full integration, Idlbi dismissed media reports suggesting alternative arrangements that would allow the SDF to maintain a presence within the Syrian army. He stressed that Syria could not sustain a dual system akin to a "state within a state" and reaffirmed the Syrian government's openness to including anyone willing to serve in state institutions.
On international matters, Idlbi addressed the ongoing Israeli assaults on Damascus, urging the US to discourage Israeli actions that could destabilize the region. He emphasized Syria's role in regional stability and the US's shift towards recognizing the Syrian government as a crucial partner in combating terror groups.
Idlbi also acknowledged Turkey's supportive stance and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's efforts in advocating for the lifting of sanctions on Syria. He welcomed potential economic partnerships with international actors, expressing a preference for resolving conflicts through dialogue while maintaining Syria's independence and integrity.
In the wake of Assad's departure to Russia and the establishment of a new administration led by Sharaa, Idlbi's remarks reflect a cautious optimism around Syria's potential path towards stability and unity.