MSDIlham Ahmad, the Executive Chair of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), emphasized that “events in Deir ez-Zor cannot be separated from regional interests” following several measures taken by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) in the region to serve the population and achieve security and stability.
She made that statement during her participation in the National Conference held on Sunday under the theme “Conference for Enhancing Security and Stability Towards Developing and Consolidating Participation in Deir ez-Zor”. The Conference was attended by a large gathering of Deir ez-Zor residents in eastern Syria.
Ms. Ahmad linked the events in Deir ez-Zor to the plans and outcomes of the “Astana meetings”, which aim to disrupt security and stability in the region, sow discord, and control over it. “The guarantors of Astana have repeatedly accused the AANES’s project of divisions and fabricated justifications to manipulate the public opinion and undermine it”, she stated.
Ahmad warned of the plots being hatched for the region by exploiting weaknesses in the administrations, the mindset of individuals, and the region’s culture by external parties, especially considering the phase is crucial amid the lack of services due to the country’s crisis. The recent Turkish attacks on northeastern Syria, targeting infrastructure and facilities, have stirred reactions against the AANES, but local residents have managed to expose their objectives.
Regarding the Arab level, particularly in Gaza, Ms. Ahmad noted that the global system is moving into a new phase, and there is a possibility of the ongoing conflict in Gaza to expand more. She expressed concerns that Syria, given its location, will be affected by the repercussions of this war since it shares borders with Gaza. She also expressed her condolences for the casualties.
The main objective of the conference is to enhance solidarity among the Syrian people and rebuild local councils, empower them, and make important decisions concerning Deir ez-Zor’s fate. “We must rely on our own resources for construction, development and protecting the region from external and internal aggressions”, the Executive Chair said.
She also discussed the role of women in participation, considering the ethical commitment to responsibilities and tasks by all administrators in the civil administration is one of the fundamental criteria that will move the region from a phase of destruction to one of construction. Ultimately, this leads to a sense of belonging.
Ms. Ilham Ahmad concluded her speech at the conference by discussing the importance of increasing awareness, fostering culture, adhering to democratic behaviors, and commending the conference attendees and organizers, wishing its success and prosperity.
The conference was concluded with 42 items in the form of a roadmap that addresses various aspects of life in the Deir ez-Zor region. This roadmap aims to strengthen participation in the civil administration of Deir ez-Zor, promote economic development in the region, activate the role of the judiciary, enhance transparency, and highlight the roles of women and youth, as well as other important items.
