The Cizîr Canton Intellectuals Union organized a meeting at the Şilêr Library in Qamishlo regarding the latest developments in Syria and the January 30 agreement signed between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the transitional government in Damascus.
Members of the Intellectuals Union, representatives of civil society organizations, and prominent figures in the canton attended the meeting on Saturday, chaired by Îlham Ehmed, Co-Chair of the Autonomous Administration’s Department of Foreign Relations.
“To begin with, we are grateful to our fighters and our devoted people. Because of their persistence in the struggle, we must fulfill their demands. We must also ensure our people’s peace, rights, and freedom,” Ehmed said.
Speaking about the current process, Îlham Ehmed stated: “A project based on the freedom of peoples had been developed. However, certain sensitivities have now emerged, especially regarding the rights of peoples. Some want to exploit these sensitivities to provoke civil war. There are many initiatives, particularly among communities. We must be careful. The project that was developed was initially for all peoples, especially for the rights of the Kurdish people. The reality that the Kurdish people live on their historical lands, contrary to the policies implemented by governments, and considering both the region’s demography and the mindset imposed on the people, shows that efforts so far have been based on demonizing this people. They were deprived of their rights and identity. Work on this issue is still ongoing. Moreover, some individuals are becoming tools of this policy.”
Ehmed continued: “They want to provoke civil war among the components. They create discord and hatred. They want to eliminate the Kurdish people; the aim and policy are very clear. From the beginning, we tried to take the lead. We also tried to lead amid the current conflict and corruption. In addition, our people will have their rights. The decision taken by the transitional government regarding the rights of the Kurdish people is the first decision ever taken that grants Kurds the right to decision-making and identity. This is a positive decision, and it will be followed up. We will also work on how to pursue these decisions politically and legally and how to put them into practice on the ground.”
With regard to integration, Ehmed stated: “Divisions and brigades will be formed for Hesekê and Kobanê. Our women comrades will also take part in these brigades and divisions. In addition, agreements will be made regarding civil and cultural institutions and language. The governor of Hesekê spoke clearly on this issue. Certain points such as border crossings and language are also being discussed. Moreover, an official committee for the constitution has not yet been established, but it has been announced that it will be formed.”
Stating that very dangerous schemes are being orchestrated and that vigilance is necessary, Îlham Ehmed said: “The enemy’s aim was to eliminate the Kurdish people, but the role of the Kurdish people came to the forefront. A historic Kurdish unity has been formed. The spirit and achievements of Rojava built this unity. Words, writing, and the pen are stronger than bullets. The rights of the Kurdish people will be guaranteed in the constitution, and we will achieve even greater successes. We will find solutions to every obstacle that arises. Efforts are also underway to enable citizens forcibly displaced from Afrin and Serêkaniyê to return to their homes.”
The meeting concluded with questions and answers.