SDF’s Mazloum Abdi expresses commitment to Syria’s unity
HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – Commander in Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Mazloum Abdi, stated on Tuesday that communication channels with the Syrian transitional government are active on a daily basis.
In an interview with Saudi Arabia news channel Al-Hadath, Abdi affirmed that both sides agree on the principle of a unified Syria under one army.
He emphasized the SDF’s commitment to the March 10 agreement signed with Syrian Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa, noting, “Implementing the terms of the agreement will take time.”
Abdi explained that the SDF will be incorporated into the Ministry of Defense as part of the broader unification process, saying: “Integrating 100,000 armed personnel into the ministry is a significant undertaking. Syria will have a single, centralized military force—not two separate armies.”
He also confirmed that a formal request has been submitted to Damascus for the reinstatement of government institutions in Raqqa, Hasakah, and Deir ez-Zor, adding: “We are unified in our vision of Syria’s territorial integrity. Decentralization does not mean fragmentation.”
According to Abdi, Damascus has expressed willingness to recognize Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights. “We have demanded that the Kurdish language be recognized as an official language alongside Arabic in Kurdish-majority area,” he said.
At the same time, Abdi acknowledged that certain sovereign institutions must remain centralized under the new governance model.
Regarding recent developments, Abdi noted that Damascus had requested the postponement of the planned Paris meeting due to the unfolding events in Suwayda. “These developments,” he said, “reinforce the need for continued negotiations and reaching a final agreement.”
He also highlighted the potential role of Saudi Arabia, stating: “Saudi Arabia could play a constructive role if it joins as a mediator in our talks with Damascus. It has already played a key role in efforts to lift sanctions on Syria.”
On relations with neighboring Turkey, Abdi concluded, “We maintain continuous communication with Turkey, and the outlook is positive.”