Pakistan Welcomes Integration of Syrian Democratic Forces into Syria’s Army
Pakistan welcomes the fusion of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led military alliance, into Syria’s state structures as a crucial step towards peace and stability in the country. This development follows Syria’s 14-year civil war, which ended in December 2024.
Ambassador Usman Jadoon, deputy permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, noted that this move represents the continued consolidation of the Syrian State and its institutions. He highlighted the following points:
- Political Transition: The integration of SDF broadens participation, strengthens national cohesion, and responds to the aspirations of the Syrian people.
- Economic Recovery: The easing of economic restrictions and increasing cooperation and investment provide reasons for optimism, with the potential for economic activity to accelerate reconstruction.
- Counter-Terrorism: Da’esh and Foreign Terrorist Fighters still pose a threat, necessitating coordinated efforts to prevent their resurgence.
- Regional Stability: Syria’s leadership has shown wisdom in keeping the country out of a wider regional conflict, and respect for international law, particularly the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, is crucial to prevent escalation.
- Occupied Territories: The Syrian Golan remains an occupied Syrian territory, as affirmed by UN Resolutions 338 and 497.
UN Special Envoy Claudio Cardone opened the debate, emphasizing the importance of successful political and economic transitions in Syria.
