New Syrian Administration Leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa Outlines Path to Elections and Constitution
Ahmed Al-Sharaa, the leader of the new administration in Syria, has announced that holding elections might take up to four years, while drafting a new constitution could require three years. In an interview with Al Arabiya, Al-Sharaa confirmed that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham would be dissolved, and the Defense Ministry would incorporate Kurdish forces.
Al-Sharaa emphasized
“We will not allow Syria to become a launchpad for attacks by the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party).” He added, “We are negotiating with the Syrian Democratic Forces to resolve the crisis in northeast Syria. The Kurds are an integral part of the Syrian fabric.”
He assured that “there will be no division or federalism in Syria in any form.”
The new Syrian General Command stated last week that Al-Sharaa had reached an agreement with leaders of the “revolutionary factions” to dissolve all factions and integrate them under the umbrella of the Defense Ministry.
Al-Sharaa described the current phase as preparatory for a longer-term interim government,
stating, “Syria needs about a year for citizens to feel significant service changes.”
Regarding international relations, Al-Sharaa noted, “Saudi Arabia has a significant role in Syria’s
future,” and praised the recent positive Saudi statements towards Syria. He added, “Saudi Arabia
is seeking stability in Syria,” and highlighted “major investment opportunities for Saudi Arabia in
Syria.”
On relations with Russia, he said, “We do not want Russia to leave in a manner unbefitting of its
relationship with Syria,” and acknowledged “strategic interests with Russia.”
Concerning the sanctions on Syria, Al-Sharaa expressed hope, “We expect from the
administration of President-elect Donald Trump to lift the sanctions on Syria,” and wished for
“the upcoming U.S. administration not to follow the policies of its predecessor.”
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