US Envoy and Syrian President discuss security and military integration

US Special Envoy to Syria and Iraq, Thomas Barack, met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus to discuss regional stability, border security, and counter-terrorism efforts. The discussions, attended by Foreign Minister Assad al-Shaibani, follow preliminary talks held in New York during the UN General Assembly regarding transitional arrangements.

During the meetings, Barack praised the successful integration of Kurdish forces, specifically the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), into the Syrian National Army. Following an agreement in January, approximately 13,000 SDF fighters have been incorporated into the military structure. Additionally, several Kurdish officials have been appointed to key administrative and governmental positions.

Following the official dissolution of the SDF in August, commander Mazloum Abdi has transitioned to a role as an advisor to the Syrian Presidency. The diplomatic engagement aims to stabilize the security situation in eastern Syria, address the presence of unofficial foreign bases, and facilitate economic recovery and the return of displaced persons.