21/04/2025

German Delegation Visits Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria Amid Ongoing Political Developments

ZALIN (QAMISHLI), North and East Syria — A high-level German delegation, led by Margarete Jakob, the acting head of the German embassy in Daramsuq (Damascus), visited the headquarters of the Foreign Relations Office of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) on Saturday. The visit, held in Zalin (Qamishli), is part of Germany’s broader effort to engage with Syrian authorities and better understand the evolving political landscape following the fall of President Assad. 

During the visit, the German delegation was warmly welcomed by co-chairs of the Foreign Relations Office, Ilham Ahmed and Fannar Al-Ka’ijt, along with deputy co-chairs Gulistan Ali and Robel Bahho. Over the course of the meeting, the two sides discussed the current conditions in the Democratic Autonomous Administration as well as the state of affairs in Syria as a whole. A particular focus was given to the practical experience of the DAARNES—the model that has been built on ensuring the rights of Syria’s diverse communities and maintaining the territorial unity of the country. 

Delegates from both sides exchanged detailed views on the latest round of negotiations between the DAARNES and the STG. Participants delved into the specifics of the recent agreements and the various committees established to negotiate the administrative structures of the autonomous region and explore potential integration with the central government in Daramsuq (Damascus). The discussions also touched on the Pentagon’s decision to reduce the presence of American troops in North and East Syria and examined the potential implications of this military recalibration on the region, particularly for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in their fight against ISIS. 

In her remarks, Chargé d’Affaires Margarete Jakob underscored the necessity of advancing a comprehensive political process that involves continuous dialogue with all segments of Syrian society. She lauded the ongoing military and administrative agreements between the DAARNES and STG, noting that such developments have been well received by the international community. Jakob stressed that supporting these efforts is crucial for sustaining peace and stability in a region that continues to face complex challenges. 

The visit reflects Germany’s commitment to engaging with Syrian authorities and stakeholders, and it is seen as an important step in fostering deeper cooperation with the Autonomous Administration—a model increasingly recognized for its inclusive governance amid a fragmented Syria.