MSDThe General Council of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) held on Sunday its first meeting in Syria’s Raqqa, with the participation of representatives from the council’s political, social, and civil components, as well as independent figures from various Syrian governorates and regions. The meeting aimed to approve the Council’s documents, its new structure, and its strategy for the next phase.
The new Co-chair of the Council, represented by Ms. Layla Qaraman and Dr. Mahmoud al-Meslat, emphasized the importance of the SDC’s project for Syria in resolving the country’s crisis and shaping its future. They described it as a significant political project for Syria, representing a beacon of hope for all Syrians.
The Co-chair stated that they prepare to suggest new plans and programs, not only for the northeastern Syria but for all regions in Syria. They expressed the council’s openness to everyone in order to serve the cause of the Syrian people across the entire Syrian territories.
They added that despite the significant and numerous challenges, including targeting Syrians and their cities, there is a determination among the honorable Syrians to unify their stances to face upcoming challenges and get Syria to safety.
During the meeting, the General Council approved the proposed names as deputies for co-chairmanship, including comrades Janda Hawoul, Amjad Othman, Afram Ishaq, Ghassan al-Youssef, and Ali Rahmoun. The Council also approved the members of the Presidential Body tasked with developing plans and programs and authorized by the General Council to lead negotiations and dialogues with political powers and parties.
The meeting members also endorsed the roadmap to resolve the Syrian crisis presented at the Fourth Conference of the SDC. That included the political document of the Council, its internal system, and its new structure.
The Council’s strategy for the upcoming phase included continuing to activate intra-Syrian dialogue for national agreements, addressing all national issues, and adopting unified positions for Syrians.
The strategy also emphasized communication and coordination with various international powers involved in the Syrian issue, including the United Nations (UN), the UN Security Council, the European Union, the Arab League, and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The Council aims to work with them to improve the humanitarian situation for Syrians, develop support and relief plans, and particularly enhance the situation of Syrians in camps inside and outside the country.
Additionally, the strategy included efforts to restore Syria’s full sovereignty over its territory, with a commitment to good neighborly relations. The Council calls on all Syrians to work together according to a national program to end all occupations of Syrian territories.
The Council’s strategy also highlighted the importance of continuing effective participation in preparations for a conference of democratic powers and figures to create an influential and balanced political front that can achieve the aspirations of the Syrian people and enhance stability and security of northeastern Syria as a base that can attract Syrian national efforts.
The Council will also work on projects to advocate for national issues, support civil society in fulfilling its true and effective role, and develop relationships that serve the issues and interests of the Syrian people.
The General Council of the SDC is considered the highest body for setting policy and decision-making, consisting of representatives from political, social, cultural, civil, and independent entities.
The Fourth Conference of the SDC was held on December 20, 2023 in Raqqa, with the participation of over 300 figures from all Syrian regions, and representatives of political and social parties, powers and movements as well as academic and independent figures.
