SDC stresses inclusive dialogue over deadline pressures

Hassan Muhammad Ali, Co-Chair of the Relations Office in the SDC, spoke to ANHA agency about the March 10 agreement between the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces and the head of the Interim Government in Syria, Ahmad Al-Shar’a. He said:

"The future of Syria cannot be approached with a mentality restricted by narrow timeframes. The essence of the negotiating process is what will shape the course, not the final date of the deadline. Any political vacuum may lead to new crises in several cities, and this is what we are working to avoid."

He added that dialogue is the only option to prevent a repetition of the crises witnessed in the coastal region, Sweida, Homs, and Jaramana, warning that their spread could “undermine the stability of Syria as a whole.”

Practical files proposed for negotiation

Muhammad Ali explained that the SDC and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have presented a set of files that can be resolved quickly, most notably:

- Improving the work of civil institutions and basic services

- Addressing official documents such as passports and ID cards

- Recognizing educational certificates in North and East Syria and agreeing on a unified curriculum

- Opening border crossings and exploring the possibility of opening Qamishlo Airport to civilian traffic

- Ensuring the recognition of the distinct status of the North and East Syria region within the future Syrian state

- Strengthening internal security and local forces to combat terrorism

He noted: “These files can be implemented immediately and can form a basis for building trust between the two sides.”

Major issues postponed

Hassan Muhammad Ali confirmed: “Constitutional and electoral issues remain outside the scope of a final solution. Citizens’ rights cannot be guaranteed without a clear constitution and organized elections. Therefore, we believe that small practical steps are the realistic path to building trust until a comprehensive political solution is reached.”

Regarding international positions, Muhammad Ali said: "The international community does not grant open-ended deadlines," but he stressed that some parts of the agreement may require more time to implement. “Current understandings may extend until the end of the year without this meaning an end to political work.”

The Co-Chair of the Relations Office added that the Syrian Democratic Forces have submitted clear proposals related to restructuring the forces and suggesting leadership names within potential understandings, but noted that the response from the Interim Government remains insufficient. He stressed:

"Time cannot be played with, nor can the proposals presented be ignored. We need clear and responsible answers."

Call for a comprehensive national dialogue

At the end of his remarks, Hassan Muhammad Ali called for expanding the dialogue to include all Syrian cities, saying:

"The new Syria cannot be built through a bilateral dialogue alone. We want the participation of all Syrians for a unified state that respects specificities and guarantees security, stability, and rights for all."

a.k

ANHA