Fawza Youssef: “We noted ease and openness in dealing with new Syrian government”

ZALIN, Syria — Co-Chair of the negotiation team of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAARNES) Fawza Youssef stated in an interview with Al-Yaum TV that the atmosphere between the DAARNES delegation and the Syrian government was positive. The Autonomous Administration delegation observed a sense of welcome, ease and openness in their interactions with the new government in Daramsuq (Damascus), Youssef said. 

Of the several topics on the table, she mentioned that her side gave importance to the issue of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and the necessity for their return to their home cities and areas. Efforts to bring IDPs home, would start in the Cafrin (Afrin) region after the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha. 

With regards to the drafting mechanisms to come to a new Syrian constitution and the criticism, the DAARNES delegation brought forward the critic and numerous issues the current process faces, particularly the marginalization of group rights and role of political parties.  

With regards to one of the hotter potatoes on the table, i.e. decentralization, Youssef said that her side emphasized during the talks that a decentralized administrative political structure does not contradict the unity of Syrian territory. She clarified that decentralization is not an issue solely for the Kurds but concerns all ethnic components of society. Youssef highlighted the role of the DAARNES in protecting the Region, noting that there are many examples worldwide of successful decentralization models. 

In conclusion, Yousuf affirmed that this time is a historic opportunity to build a better and prosperous Syria, one that achieves justice and equality for all its peoples and communities.