Mazlum Abdi, Commander-in-Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), met with a delegation from the Sêrekaniyê IDPs Committee on Sunday. The meeting addressed the situation of IDPs in camps and settlement centers and the importance of meeting their basic needs.
Abdi emphasized that the safe and legal return of IDPs to their homeland is one of the SDF’s fundamental political objectives. In this context, he reiterated the need for the active implementation of the clause regarding the safe return of refugees in the agreement signed between the SDF and the Syrian Transitional Government on March 10. “The right to return is inalienable. We will continue our political and field efforts to ensure that refugees return to their regions safely and with dignity,” he said.
The SDF Commander-in-Chief stated that the Serêkaniyê issue is one of the most fundamental topics in the ongoing discussions and negotiations regarding Syria’s future. He noted that they are working in coordination with local and international parties to find a comprehensive and lasting solution to the refugee problem.
Abdi emphasized that the return process must be carried out in an organized and planned manner, under the guarantees of local parties and international organizations, stating: “The return of IDPs should not take place individually or in an unplanned manner. This process must be secured with international guarantees so that the painful scenarios experienced by civilians in the past are not repeated.”
Mazlum Abdi stated that political, security, and administrative obstacles to the return of IDPs must be removed. In this regard, he said that efforts are ongoing to ensure a safe and organized return process.
Abdi stated that they presented clear proposals and opinions to the Damascus regime, demanding that the refugee files in all regions of Syria be handled seriously and responsibly.
The SDF Commander General said that strengthening coordination between military, security, and administrative institutions in North and East Syria would have a positive impact on the refugee issue and the future of the occupied regions.