Syria is set to host a national conference in Damascus on January 4 and 5 to discuss the country’s future following the fall of the Assad government earlier this month. The event marks the first nationwide gathering since the significant regime change in the Arab country.
Organizers plan to bring together around 1,200 Syrians from both within and outside the nation, along with an additional 70 to 100 representatives from each province. Attendees will include representatives from youth groups, women’s organizations, the clergy, and various civil society groups, ensuring a diverse range of voices in shaping Syria’s path forward.
According to reports from Turkish broadcaster A Haber, the conference is expected to announce the dissolution of all armed factions, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which played a key role in toppling the Assad government on December 8. The move aims to promote peace and stability as the country embarks on rebuilding efforts.
A constitutional drafting committee is anticipated to be established during the conference, with proposals to form a new government within a month. While the interim administration, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, has not issued an official statement regarding the conference, preparations appear to be underway.
In addition to internal rebuilding, Syria is looking to strengthen ties with Gulf nations. The interim administration has pledged closer relations following high-level talks with a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) delegation led by Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya and GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi.
During a joint press conference, Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani expressed gratitude for the support from Arab nations. “We want to reintegrate Syria into its Arab environment,” he said. “We look forward to strengthening our relationships with our Gulf brothers.”
Al-Yahya emphasized the GCC’s solidarity with Syria, highlighting the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty and supporting its stability. “We reject any violation of Syria’s territorial integrity,” he stated, reaffirming the council’s commitment to the Syrian people.
The discussions also covered ways to revitalize Syria’s economy and calls for the lifting of international sanctions. Albudaiwi echoed the need for a comprehensive political transition, stressing that it is essential for lasting regional stability. He condemned any foreign interference in Syrian affairs and called for Israel’s immediate withdrawal from the occupied Golan Heights.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
