U.S. Envoy reports positive talks with Kurdish leaders in NE Syria

QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The United States Special Envoy to Syria, Thomas Barrack, said on Saturday that discussions with the Kurdish community in northeast Syria are progressing well.

Speaking at the Manama Dialogue forum, Barrack remarked, “The leadership in Syria has performed well over the past months.”

Barrack’s comments follow his visit on October 6 to northern and eastern Syria, during which he held substantive discussions with the General Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), General Mazloum Abdi.

General Abdi stated that the meeting focused on several key issues aimed at supporting political integration in Syria, preserving the country’s territorial unity, creating a secure environment for all Syrian communities, and ensuring the continuity of counterterrorism efforts against ISIS in the region.

The SDF, a Kurdish-led multi-ethnic force backed by the U.S.-led coalition, continues to maintain security and stability across areas under its control in northeast Syria. The administration of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) has played a central role in governance, ensuring local services and civil administration operate effectively while supporting ongoing efforts to combat extremist threats.

While Barrack’s visit included meetings with Kurdish leadership, it was part of broader U.S. diplomatic engagement aimed at fostering regional stability and supporting political dialogue among Syria’s diverse communities. The discussions underscore the ongoing international attention on northern and eastern Syria, a region that has remained relatively stable under AANES governance despite challenges from adjacent conflict zones and extremist activity.

The U.S. envoy’s remarks, highlighting constructive engagement with Kurdish leaders, reflect an emphasis on continued cooperation and coordination to address security and governance challenges in the region.

No further details were immediately released regarding follow-up meetings or additional diplomatic initiatives.

By Atoun Jan