According to Hawar News Agency, Abdi made these statements during a special program on Ronahi TV on Sunday, where he provided a comprehensive assessment of recent high-level meetings with both American officials and Syria's transitional government.
The SDF commander revealed that Damascus has shown a "positive convergence" on the issue of decentralization, despite some disagreement over terminology. "Perhaps we don't agree on the terms, but there is a willingness to agree on the content," Abdi stated. He indicated that delegations from the Autonomous Administration would visit Syrian cities to observe the new governmental system and present their perspectives on decentralization and local administrations.
A crucial development emerging from the talks involves constitutional amendments. Abdi emphasized that while a new constitution has been drafted, certain provisions from the March 10 agreement are absent and require modification. "They do not oppose amendments. There is positive convergence on this issue, and we have taken a step forward," he said, confirming that the SDF would participate in the constitutional revision process.
On military integration, Abdi confirmed that both the SDF and Internal Security Forces would join Syria's Defense Ministry. "We agreed on joining, but of course, the delegation will hold meetings and discuss the details," he explained. The commander stressed that preserving the achievements and experience of the SDF remains paramount, noting that Syria's Defense Minister acknowledged the need for SDF expertise.
The meetings followed consultations with a high-level American delegation, including special envoy Tom Barak and the CENTCOM commander. Abdi reported that US officials expressed support for SDF cooperation, the fight against ISIS, and dialogue with Damascus. Discussions covered lifting Caesar Act sanctions, implementing the March 10 agreement, and accelerating negotiations that had recently stagnated.
A comprehensive ceasefire on all fronts emerged as one of the most significant outcomes. Abdi noted that recent violations had prompted external interference in Syria's internal affairs, making the ceasefire critical for stability.
Regarding displaced persons, Abdi announced that the time has come for organized returns, particularly to Afrin, where hundreds of thousands remain displaced. "In the coming days, work will be done on the return of our people to Afrin, and our Afrin people must be prepared for that as well," he stated.
On the fight against ISIS, the commander revealed that the international coalition has formally requested Syria's participation. "According to our understanding, Damascus views the matter positively," Abdi said, noting that the struggle would transition from a regional to a national level across all of Syria.
Concerning Kurdish rights—a key component of the March 10 agreement—Abdi indicated that while Damascus claims no objection, implementation remains pending. He emphasized the need for constitutional amendments to guarantee these rights, including language and education matters.
The commander maintained that open channels exist with Turkey and expressed hope for positive Turkish engagement, while insisting that Syrians must resolve their issues themselves, though acknowledging Turkey's significant influence on Syria's future.
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