DAANES Stresses Commitment to Syrian's territorial Unity While Renewing Push for Autonomy
DAANES reaffirms Syria's territorial unity while pushing for decentralized democratic reforms after talks with Damascus. The administration rejects "separatist" labels, framing its demands as essential for inclusive governance and lasting peace in post-conflict Syria.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES) issued a statement on Sunday affirming its unwavering commitment to the unity of Syrian territory, following recent high-level discussions between the DAANES and the Syrian government in the presence of U.S. and French representatives.
A Pivotal Step Toward Serious Syrian Dialogue
In its statement, DAANES described the meetings as a “significant step” toward launching a serious Syrian-Syrian dialogue — a goal the administration said it has pursued since the outbreak of the Syrian revolution. It extended its gratitude to both the United States and France for their constructive role in supporting peace, stability, and democracy in Syria.
“After years of estrangement and conflict, sitting at one table to transparently and earnestly discuss vital national issues marks a historic and political achievement,” the statement read.
Calls for Decentralized Democratic Reform
DAANES reiterated its long-standing demands for a democratic, pluralistic system that guarantees social justice, gender equality, and a constitution protecting the rights of all communities. These, it asserted, were the core goals behind the Syrian people's uprising since 2011.
"Labeling these demands as separatist is a deliberate distortion of the Syrian people’s struggle against authoritarianism," the statement declared.
The administration criticized the legacy of centralized rule, which it said monopolized power and wealth, marginalized local decision-making, and dragged the country into recurring crises.
Rejecting Fragmentation: “Unity Is Non-Negotiable”
DAANES made it clear that the unity of Syrian territory is a fundamental and non-negotiable principle in its vision and in that of all political forces engaged in the national transformation project.
“Exploiting the issue of territorial integrity for political one-upmanship only serves those who wish to undermine prospects for a political solution,” the administration warned.
It stressed that Syria’s diversity must be seen not as a threat but as a strength, emphasizing that partnership—not exclusion—is the foundation of a new Syrian state.
A Vision for a New Syria
Looking ahead, DAANES reaffirmed its aspiration to be an integral partner in building a decentralized Syria that embraces all its citizens and guarantees equal rights.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to the objectives of the March 15 and July 19 revolutions—calls for democracy, justice, and freedom,” the statement continued.
DAANES expressed its full readiness to engage in the political process, integrate into state institutions on democratic foundations, and contribute to drafting a new constitution that reflects the aspirations of all Syrians.
Call for National Responsibility
The statement concluded with an appeal to all political actors to demonstrate national responsibility, reject hate speech and violence, and resist any attempts to derail the Syrian dialogue.
“We urge all national political forces to unite during this critical phase to protect the Syrian dialogue from sabotage and to realize our people's hopes for a civil, democratic, and just state.”
