Swedish government says it will continue to work towards peace in Syria

STOCKHOLM / NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — The Swedish government sent a letter to the Democratic Autonomous Administration (DAA) of North and East Syria expressing its deep respect for the sacrifices made by the Syrian people and their defiance in the face of extreme hardship, stressing that the entire international community owes a debt of great gratitude to the DAA efforts in the joint battle against the Islamic State (ISIS) as part of the U.S.-led International Coalition.

“Were it not for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), ISIS would have threatened international peace and stability,” read the letter. “In those battles, thousands of fighters who fought against the extremist organization were martyred.”

The letter indicated that Sweden will remain a friend and partner of the DAA and will continue to call for the inclusion of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) in any negotiated political settlement of the Syrian crisis. Sweden looks forward to continuing the close partnership and dialogue for a peaceful and sustainable future for Syria, said the letter.

The letter concluded by noting that Sweden will continue to work to meet the needs of the Syrian people and contribute to reconstruction and development, as well as enhance the steadfastness of the Syrian people and contribute to a dignified life for them. A priority in these endeavors being the restoration of vital water infrastructure, support for the agricultural sector, rehabilitation of those injured as a result of ISIS terrorism, and continued humanitarian aid access.