Munich (Rûdaw) – Discussions between U.S. Secretary of State and representatives of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) at the Munich Security Conference focused on the rights of Kurds, stability in Syria, and military integration, according to SDF General Commander Mazlum Abdi. Abdi described the meetings as “important and productive.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Mazlum Abdi, the General Commander of the Democratic Syrian Forces (DSF), Ilham Ahmed, Co-Chair of the Autonomous Administration’s Department of Foreign Relations, and Esad Shebani, the Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs, during the Munich Security Conference.
Following the meeting, Mazlum Abdi detailed the discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Rûdaw TV correspondent Ala Şali.
U.S. Talks: “Priority is Stability and Integration”
Mazlum Abdi stated that the meeting with the U.S. Secretary of State was comprehensive, covering the fight against ISIS, the implementation of existing agreements, and the securing of Kurdish rights. The development underscores the ongoing efforts to establish a lasting peace in the region.
Abdi explained that the implementation of agreements reached on January 29 was also discussed, with a focus on enshrining the rights of the Kurdish people in the constitution, protecting Kurdish identity and culture.
He added that the U.S. Side considers this issue a priority, and that this was communicated to them as being among the priorities of the Donald Trump administration. The goal is to establish stability in Syria and develop an appropriate integration model between military structures.
“Kurdish Regions Should Self-Govern”
Responding to a Rûdaw question about whether Rojava would be autonomous or remain connected to the central government, Abdi stated that their goal is for Kurdish regions to self-govern, as stipulated in the agreement.
Abdi emphasized the need for Kurdish regions to be organized on the basis of self-administration in the administrative, military, and security fields, adding that the rights of the Kurdish people, Kurdish identity, and culture must be included in the Syrian constitution. He also noted positive signs of progress on these issues.
Contacts with Damascus: “A Positive Step”
Regarding contacts with the Syrian government, Mazlum Abdi said that the presence of Syrian government officials, U.S. Officials, and representatives of the Autonomous Administration in the same meeting was a first and a positive development.
Abdi noted that the parties’ exchange of views together is important for finding a solution.
Mazlum Abdi also thanked officials from the Kurdistan Region for their efforts in reaching agreements with Damascus.
He added that international contacts, such as those in Munich, represent a new diplomatic beginning for Rojava.
DSF Integration into the Syrian Army
Responding to a Rûdaw question about whether the SDF would join the Syrian army, Abdi said that integration is possible, but it must take place under a special model.
Abdi stated that the SDF will maintain local military structures in the form of brigades in Kurdish regions such as Dêrik, Kamishlo, Kobani, and Haseke. He emphasized that the Syrian Democratic Forces will develop into part of the Syrian army within this framework.
U.S. Guarantees
In response to a question about what guarantees the U.S. Provided, Mazlum Abdi said that they were told the agreements would be implemented and that This represents a priority for the U.S. Administration. He added that the process will be closely monitored and that they are awaiting the outcome.
