British Officials Pledge to Strengthen Ties with Syria’s Kurdish-led Region
By Kardo Roj
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Two visiting British officials affirmed on Tuesday their commitment to supporting and deepening ties with Northeast Syria, emphasizing the region’s resilience and the need for stronger international partnerships.
The statements came as part of a political delegation’s visit to Qamishli, which included Martin Round, the mayor-elect of Maidstone in Kent, Karen Constantine, deputy leader of the Labour group in Kent County Council, Sir Roger Lyons, former president of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), and Jason Kaplan, aviation director at Mid Kent.
Speaking to North Press, Karen Constantine highlighted the importance of international solidarity with the people of Northeast Syria, describing their determination and passion for self-governance.
“This is my second visit to the region. I came in 2017 as an independent observer for the elections, and I was deeply moved by the will of the people—especially the Kurds—who aspire to autonomy,” Constantine said.
She also stressed the economic potential of the region and the importance of infrastructure development, particularly the role an airport could play in linking Northeast Syria with the world.
“An airport would be a fantastic asset to develop business and boost the local economy. It would also enable people who fled the region to return, whether to visit or to rebuild their lives,” she added.
“One of the reasons I came here is because I felt I could contribute something to this area,” he said. “But at the same time, I wanted to take something back to England and Great Britain—to inform people about what is happening here.”
Round acknowledged the difficulties facing the region, describing some of what he witnessed as “traumatic,” but he remained optimistic about the future.
“Despite all the problems, traumas, and difficulties, I see great opportunities. If we start with small efforts, they can grow into bigger things. The way to achieve this is by coming back and building lasting relationships,” he explained.
Both officials emphasized that their visit was not just symbolic but aimed at fostering tangible cooperation. Round stated that, as politicians, he and Constantine would take steps to raise awareness in the UK, establish partnerships, and facilitate knowledge exchange.
“We need to inform people, broker partnerships, and create opportunities for collaboration. From small beginnings, we can create meaningful change,” he said.
The British delegation’s visit underscores a growing international interest in Northeast Syria, where local authorities continue to advocate for political recognition, economic support, and reconstruction efforts following years of conflict.