Peregraf
Mazlum Abdi, the commander-in-chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has revealed the details of his recent meeting with Massoud Barzani, leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). The two leaders discussed critical issues concerning the future of the Kurdish people in Syria, emphasizing the importance of unity and peaceful negotiations with Damascus.
In a statement following their meeting in Salahaddin, Erbil, Abdi noted, “We emphasized the Kurdish unity in Syria, and the negotiations with Damascus must protect the rights of the Kurdish people in a peaceful manner. We also stressed that the importance of Kurdish unity and peace in the region is the responsibility of all of us, and we will cooperate together.”
Focus on Unity and Dialogue
The discussions focused on the political and security developments in Syria, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of Kurdish political parties collaborating to address the challenges and opportunities arising from the evolving situation. A statement from Barzani’s headquarters following the meeting underscored the need for Kurdish factions to independently shape their future through dialogue and peaceful means.
The statement further stressed that unity and collaboration among Kurdish groups are essential to safeguarding their rights and playing a constructive role in shaping Syria’s political landscape. Barzani and Abdi reiterated that working together was key to achieving peace, stability, and mutual understanding with emerging Syrian leadership.
Strengthening Kurdish Position
Hoshyar Zebari, a member of the KDP Politburo, described the meeting as a pivotal moment in strengthening Kurdish unity. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Zebari wrote, “Today’s meeting in Erbil between President Masoud Barzani and SDF Commander of N.E. Syria is a significant achievement to strengthen Kurdish unity and position vis-a-vis the new Syrian rulers in Damascus for a smooth political transition.”
The meeting comes as part of Barzani’s continued efforts to unite Syrian Kurdish factions. Earlier this month, he held discussions with the Syrian Kurdish National Council (ENKS), advocating for peaceful dialogue to resolve internal disputes.
Context of the Meeting
Abdi has long emphasized the importance of Kurdish unity, referring to it as a “historical necessity.” His earlier discussions with Barzani’s representative, Hamid Darbandi, on January 13, laid the groundwork for the Erbil meeting. These talks aimed at building alliances among Kurdish factions to address shared challenges ahead of a potential political transition in Syria.
The meeting takes place at a critical time in the Syrian conflict. Kurdish-majority regions in Syria face both opportunities for greater autonomy and risks of division. Long-standing ideological differences and external pressures, particularly from Turkey, have complicated efforts to present a united front.
A Turning Point for Syrian Kurds
Barzani’s outreach to the SDF and ENKS is seen as part of a broader strategy to consolidate the Kurdish position in negotiations with both the Syrian government and international actors. However, the path to unity remains fraught with challenges, including internal divisions and external opposition.
As Syria edges closer to a post-Assad era, the ability of Kurdish leaders to unify their ranks will play a decisive role in shaping the future of Kurdish-majority regions. A united Kurdish bloc could push for federalism, minority rights, and autonomy, while continued disunity risks marginalizing Kurdish aspirations.
The meeting between Barzani and Abdi is widely viewed as a critical step toward bridging divides and presenting a cohesive vision for the Kurdish future in Syria.