SDF’s Abdi welcomes Trump–al-Sharaa meeting in Saudi Arabia
HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – Commander in Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Mazloum Abdi, welcomed on Thursday the recent meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Syria’s Transitional President, Ahmad al-Sharaa in the Saudi capital, Riyadh.
In an exclusive statement to North Press, Abdi said, “We welcome the recent meetings, including those scheduled today in Turkey. We see them as a significant opportunity to launch a new phase of constructive dialogue aimed at restoring stability and peace in Syria.”
Later Thursday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Ankara, Turkey.
Abdi emphasized the importance of international cooperation, saying, “Regional and international partnerships are essential to building a stable and secure future for all Syrians. We are ready to engage with all parties on this basis.”
Commenting on Trump’s decision to cease sanctions on Syria, Abdi added, “We welcome the decision to end sanctions, given the severe impact they’ve had on the Syrian people for over fourteen years. It is time to move forward toward a new phase of economic recovery, reconstruction, and development across Syria — particularly in the northeast.”
He also acknowledged the regional and international efforts that led to the cessation of sanctions.
Reaffirming the SDF’s stance, Abdi said, “We reiterate our commitment to the agreement signed with Damascus on March 10.”
Meanwhile, White House spokesperson confirmed that Trump had asked al-Sharaa to take responsibility for the detention centers housing militants of the Islamic State (ISIS) across northeastern Syria.
Addressing this, Abdi stated, “We have consistently expressed our readiness for joint coordination in the fight against ISIS. The threat extends beyond Syria — it endangers the entire region and the world. We appreciate the support of international actors in encouraging Syrian state institutions to engage responsibly in this matter.”
He concluded by emphasizing the shared responsibility in counterterrorism, “Protecting Syria from terrorism is a national and collective duty. We remain committed to fulfilling this mission in coordination with our international partners.”