A high-level delegation from northeastern (NE) Syria met with senior British officials, including Sammy Wilson, Democratic Unionist Party MP for East Antrim, Caroline Dinenage, Conservative MP, and Michael Jay (Baron Jay of Ewelme), British politician and former diplomat. The delegation was led by Ilham Ahmad, Co-Chairwoman of the Foreign Relations Department of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), and Hassan Muhammad Ali, Co-Chairman of the Public Relations Office of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC).
Discussions focused on the need to end the hostilities carried out by Turkish-backed factions, particularly the attacks on the Tishreen Dam, which pose a significant threat of a humanitarian catastrophe. The delegation emphasized the need to exert pressure to halt the escalation and attacks that threaten civil peace and affect the region’s resources.
Discussions also centered on the importance of preserving the model of self-governance in NE Syria. This model is seen as a cornerstone for regional and national stability. Participants emphasized the need to integrate this model into Syria’s future. This integration is crucial to ensure security and stability amid the region’s diverse communities and ongoing threats.
A key topic of discussion was the need for the participation of all Syrian political powers in the upcoming national conference. This conference should represent all components of Syrian society. The meetings also emphasized the importance of ensuring effective women’s representation in this dialogue, as their role is fundamental in building Syria’s future.
Discussions highlighted the critical importance of preserving the AANES model. This model was described as a cornerstone for the stability of both the region and Syria as a whole. Participants stressed that this model must remain an integral part of Syria’s future. Its inclusion is seen as vital to ensuring security and stability in a society marked by diversity and continuous threats.
The delegation also addressed the urgent need to facilitate the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs). They called for intensified efforts to pressure for the return of Afrin’s residents and other displaced individuals to their homes. Additionally, they emphasized the necessity of removing armed factions from the region to create a safer environment. To further these efforts, the delegation proposed the formation of an international delegation to visit NE Syria. The aim is to conduct a direct assessment of the humanitarian and security conditions on the ground.
The discussions also touched on the importance of maintaining the role of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) within the framework of a national military structure for Syria’s future army. This inclusion was highlighted as an essential matter for ensuring security and stability in the country.
In a related context, some British parliamentarians proposed adopting federalism as a political model for Syria’s future. They viewed federalism as a solution that reflects the country’s diversity and promotes the equitable distribution of power among the various components of the Syrian population.
MP Wilson expressed his willingness to participate in a delegation visiting NE Syria. He highlighted the importance of regular monitoring of developments in the region to ensure that the British Parliament provides appropriate support. Wilson emphasized that the Syrian people have the most intimate knowledge of their own reality. He also expressed his commitment to supporting efforts towards a comprehensive political solution in Syria.
Discussions also centered on the significant impact of international sanctions on Syria. The delegation highlighted that these ongoing sanctions have significantly exacerbated poverty and increased the risk of widespread chaos within the country. Furthermore, the conclusion of the meetings emphasized the crucial need for international support in achieving a comprehensive political solution for Syria. This solution should guarantee the rights of all Syrian components and respect the country’s religious and ethnic diversity.