Swedish delegation visits North and East Syria, takes custody of several Swedish nationals detained in camps

ZALIN, Syria — A delegation from the Kingdom of Sweden headed by Ambassador Frederic Floren of the Department of Consular Affairs and Civil Law arrived at the headquarters of the Foreign Relations Commission in Zalin (Qamishli) in North and East Syria.

The Swedish delegation was received by Co-Chair of the Commission Abdulkarim Omar, Deputy Co-Chair of the Commission Fanar Keit, Public Relations Officer Zuzan Anas from the Office of Relations, and Deputy in the Women’s Authority of Gozarto (Jazira) Region Sabah Shabo.

During the meeting, custody of a number of children and women of Swedish nationality affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS) was transferred to from the Democratic Autonomous Administration (DAA) of North and East Syria to the Swedish delegation.

Progress towards a political solution in Syria was discussed, with both sides stressing the need to resolve the crisis in Syria in accordance with international resolutions, particularly U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254, in an inclusive process that sees the participation of all components and geographies in Syria.

Omar said that Turkish threats and military operations continue to target civilian areas and the recent escalation in attacks has led to a new wave of displacement from Ayn Issa, Tel Tamr, and Abu Rasayn (Zarkan).

On the status of the camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and foreigners, particularly Al-Hol camp, Omar said that there are daily killings and covert terrorist training for children. More rehabilitation centers are needed to keep them away from the radical atmosphere in the camp but the DAA has limited resources, a fact made worse by the closing of the Yaroubiya Border Crossing to U.N. humanitarian aid.

Ambassador Floren expressed his happiness with the fruitful talks with DAA and thanked the Administration for its cooperation on all issues and thanked the people of North and East Syria for their role in combatting terrorism.