Kurdish-led SDF Commander Invites Syria’s President to Visit Northeast Syria

By Hoshang Hasan

HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – Mazloum Abdi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), congratulated Ahmad al-Sharaa on his appointment as Syria’s transitional president and called for continued dialogue to achieve national stability.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with North Press, Abdi emphasized the importance of finding a political solution that ensures unity, justice, and equality for all Syrians.

“We support all efforts that contribute to stability and national unity,” Abdi stated, adding that he hopes Sharaa will successfully lead Syria through this sensitive period.

Ongoing Negotiations with Damascus

Regarding negotiations between the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) and the Syrian government, Abdi confirmed that talks are ongoing to establish a framework for cooperation.

“Serious and constructive dialogue is the best path toward solutions that serve Syria’s national interest,” he said.

While the SDF and Damascus have found common ground on some issues, others remain unresolved. According to Abdi, the Syrian government has requested:

  • The removal of non-Syrian fighters from SDF ranks.
  • The transfer of ISIS detainees to government custody.
  • The return of central government institutions to northeastern Syria.

Abdi expressed willingness to cooperate on these matters, stating that combating terrorism and maintaining security require high-level coordination between all Syrian factions.

Invitation to Northeast Syria

Abdi welcomed Sharaa’s recent visit to Afrin, calling it a positive step toward encouraging the safe return of displaced residents and strengthening political dialogue.

“We invite President Sharaa to visit northeast Syria to witness the region’s realities firsthand and engage in direct discussions on its future,” Abdi said.

He also reiterated the SDF’s commitment to Syria’s territorial unity, emphasizing the need for a decentralized system based on justice and equality rather than sectarianism or power-sharing quotas.

Path Forward

Sharaa previously acknowledged disagreements with the SDF on certain governance and security matters. However, Abdi stressed that future discussions in Damascus will focus on developing a clear action plan for cooperation.

“We remain open to a national solution that unites all Syrians,” Abdi concluded, reaffirming the SDF’s commitment to constructive negotiations with the transitional government.