Ankara: Trkiye welcomed the convening of the first session of the People's Assembly of Syria on Sunday, describing it as an important step toward advancing the political process in line with the legitimate rights and expectations of the Syrian people and establishing popular sovereignty.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Turkish Foreign Ministry expressed its belief that the People's Assembly, which integrates different segments of Syrian society, will significantly contribute to efforts aimed at establishing stability, security, and prosperity in the country through an inclusive governance system. The ministry also conveyed its confidence in the assembly's ability to effectively undertake its legislative duties in shaping the future of Syria.
The statement from the Turkish ministry emphasized continued support for the Syrian people in their endeavors to construct a prosperous future grounded in Syria's territorial integrity and unity. The inaugural session was attended by several Cabinet ministers and officials, following a week's postponement from the originally scheduled date.
A total of 206 out of 210 members attended the session, with three representatives from southern Suwayda province absent due to security challenges and restrictions linked to the militia of Hikmat al-Hijri, a prominent Druze leader. Despite these absences, Suwayda maintained representation through additional parliamentary members appointed by Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, ensuring the province's presence without affecting its right to fill the vacant seats later.
The session followed the finalization of the People's Assembly's composition, with President Sharaa issuing a decree listing all members, including those appointed by him to supplement the elected representatives. The new parliament consists of 210 members, with 140 elected from across Syria's provinces and 70 appointed by Sharaa, in accordance with the temporary electoral system.
These developments represent a significant step in rebuilding Syria's state institutions following the overthrow of the Bashar al-Assad regime on December 8, 2024. Assad, who took power after his father's nearly 30-year rule, governed Syria from 2000 until 2024.