Kurdish Unity Conference in Qamishlo Aims to Strengthen Syria’s Future, Says SDF Leader
In a historic gathering, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Commander-General Mazloum Abdi opened the Unity and Solidarity Conference of Western Kurdistan's Political Parties in Qamishlo on Saturday, declaring the event a pivotal step toward Kurdish unity and Syria’s stability.
Abdi emphasized that the conference was the result of extensive negotiations among Kurdish factions, thanking key leaders for their efforts, including Kurdistan Region President Masoud Barzani, KCK co-presidency, KRG Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani, and PUK leader Bafel Talabani.
Reflecting on Syria’s 14-year conflict, Abdi honored the sacrifices of Kurdish fighters, stating, "Around 13,000 of our sons and daughters were martyred, and thousands more wounded. We dedicate this conference to them."
Abdi firmly denied claims that the conference sought to partition Syria, asserting, "Kurdish unity is Syrian unity. Our goal is not division but a stronger, united Syria." He called for a new constitution recognizing decentralization and the rights of all communities, citing the peaceful coexistence of Kurds, Arabs, Assyrians, and Armenians in northeast Syria.
Highlighting decades of Kurdish marginalization, Abdi demanded constitutional guarantees for Kurdish rights. "The Kurdish people have been oppressed and excluded from Syria’s politics. In the new Syria, their rights must be secured in the constitution," he said.
A major expected outcome is the formation of a joint Kurdish delegation to negotiate with Damascus. "Kurdish parties are working on a unified draft to negotiate Kurdish rights in Syria’s future," Abdi stated.
The conference, attended by over 400 representatives, includes key factions like the Kurdish National Council in Syria (ENKS) and the Democratic Union Party (PYD), with delegates from all parts of Kurdistan.
This unprecedented unity effort signals Kurdish determination to shape a democratic, decentralized Syria while securing their political future. The conference continues as Kurdish leaders push for a breakthrough in Syria’s protracted crisis.
